Taking to Instagram on Thursday, which also happened to be national mental health awareness day R U OK Day, the TV personality thanked friends, family and the football community for their support during this difficult time.
Jesinta uploaded a powerful message which read: “It doesn’t matter how this looks to other people. If this is something you gotta do, then do it. Fighters fight.”
Captioning the image along with the Lifeline’s number 13 11 14, the former Miss Universe Australia addressed her partner’s personal mental health battle.
“I would like to thank everyone for the support both Bud and I have received over the past few days.”
“This is an extremely challenging time for us and has been for some time now, however it has been made easier by the love, understanding and support we have been given.”
Jesinta’s powerful post which was published on R U OK Day.
The 24-year-old has been in Japan filming a new episode for Getaway, but her thoughts have been with Buddy, who earlier in the week announced he would be pulling out of the AFL finals due to mental health issues. It was also revealed the star player suffers from mild epilepsy, however this is an unrelated condition to his mental health.
At her partner’s request, the couple’s manager Sharon Finnigan announced that Jesinta would remain in Japan until her filming commitments were completed.
“He wants her to stay in Japan and keep working, that is what he has requested,” she said.
Jesinta’s heartfelt message was also a timely reminder of R U OK day. Taking the opportunity, she urged others to reach out and check in with their friends, family and colleagues.
“Thinking of the many others who also live with this every day and are not as fortunate to have the support we do. I am incredibly proud of Bud’s strength and courage, this has not been an easy journey.”
Jesinta puts on a brave face as she continues her work for Getaway in Japan.
“I am thankful for the support of the Sydney Swans, both of our families, friends and [our manager] Sharon [Finnigan].”
“We are not alone in this. My heart is with my man. The only thing I ask is that everyone respect our privacy at this time.”
It’s been a tough week for Buddy, who suffered from an epileptic seizure at a cafe in Bondi while his girlfriend was about to fly to Japan.
Meanwhile Sydney Swans General Manager of Football, Tom Harley, announced Buddy’s mental illness in a statement on Tuesday. “Lance has been open with the Club about his condition and while we consider it a private medical matter, he is aware he has our full support,” it read.
“The timeframe on his return is unclear at this stage. He will certainly miss this week’s match and we will continue to monitor his condition.”
If you or anyone you know is struggling with any mental health concerns, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
