Milly’s case tore up the hearts of the nation when she vanished in 2002, but what’s more, she later sparked the downfall of national newspaper News Of The World when they were discovered to have hacked the teenager’s phone and give her family false hope.
Now, her sister Gemma has documented her family’s ordeal for a new book, My Sister Milly.
“I think when we first lost Milly I didn’t realise how lovely our family was,” Gemma told This Morning hosts Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby. “So the only book I wanted to write was from love.”
When Phillip asked why she felt now was the right time to release her memoir, Gemma explained: “There were major issues of trust and I feel like I’ve been fighting to be heard for 15 years. Now I feel like everyone’s listening.”
Gemma revealed that it took more than a decade to seek therapy, which also contributed to the creation of her book.
“It wasn’t until 10 years after [Milly’s death] I eventually found some help and they helped mum as well,” she said. “I was worried she didn’t want to live anymore so I think it’s important I’ve written it all down so they can document and have on record.
She continued: “It was so hard, and I didn’t realise how much it would affect me now. When you document it in a book like this you can’t believe we survived it – hit, after hit, after hit.”
This Morning then played footage of Milly, which was shown at the time of her death, but with the sound playing for the first time.
Her mother is heard teasing Milly for ironing “for the first time”, which she playfully disputes: “That’s not true!”
Viewers applauded Gemma in their droves on Twitter, with one posting: “#ThisMorning#gemmadowler you’ve done Milly proud, so much respect for you…love to your family @thismorning”
“What an amazing lady #gemmadowler is on #ThisMorning, so truly inspirational. Milly will b looking down v proudly on her fabulous sister,” enthused a second, which was followed by: “What a lovely woman Gemma Dowler is, can’t believe it’s been 15 years since Milly Dowler died.”
Another shared: “Gemma Dowler. What a strong, empowering, independent and beautiful lady! Your family, including Milly, should be so proud,” before one more agreed: “@thismorning so brave of Gemma to talk about that awful moment in her familys life Milly would be so proud of her lovely sister.”
This Morning airs weekdays at 10.30pm on ITV.
My Sister Milly will be available to buy from tomorrow.
Daily Express :: TV and Radio Feed
