It’s been nothing short of an emotional few months for former Ironman Grant Kenny, who has had to combine mourning and celebration all within weeks of each other.
WATCH BELOW: Grant Kenny enjoys a cuddle with new grandson Taj
In September, the father-of- four tragically lost his eldest child, Jaimi Lee, who he shares with ex-wife Lisa Curry. Their other daughter Morgan, 30, was heavily pregnant at the time, and welcomed her second son just a few weeks later.
Speaking to New Idea, a close friend of Grant reveals the mixed emotions over the New Year have softened the athlete. He’s been quietly reflecting and enjoying the company of his family, including son Jett, 27, and grandsons Flynn, 2, and Taj, 3 months.
However, at the same time, the source insists Grant dearly misses his youngest child, daughter Trixie Belle, 7, who he shares with radio presenter Fifi Box, 43.
“Grant is torn … he’s a real old-fashioned family man, so he’s feeling like he’s letting Fifi and Trixie down by not being there more regularly,” says the source.
Grant, 57, is based in Queensland, while Trixie and her mum live in Melbourne.
“Travel restrictions and the tragic passing of Jaimi have really limited him from freely travelling down to see them.
“Grant plans to be in Melbourne as soon as he knows the borders will safely stay open and not slam shut while he’s down there visiting.”
According to the insider, Grant is planning to stay for an extended visit and make the most of his time with the girls.
“He knows young Trixie and Fifi were both very fond of Jaimi, so he will do everything he can to ensure little Trixie never forgets how much her big sis loved her,” the source continues.
Days after Jaimi passed away aged 33, Fifi shared a touching tribute where she thanked her for being an amazing big sister to Trixie.
“The loss of such a beautiful, loving sister and friend is suffocating. We laughed, we cried, we shared so many wonderful memories that I will keep alive for Trixie, who loved her big sister so much,” Fifi wrote, adding, “You loved Trixie with all your heart and she felt every inch of your love”.
Interestingly, the insider says the trip away from Queensland, where Lisa lives with her second husband, Mark Tabone, will do a world of good for Grant.
“It’s no secret that Lisa hasn’t always seen eye to eye with Fifi,” says the source, noting it’s easier for Grant to reunite with Fifi, who is also mum to 1-year-old daughter Daisy, away from his other family.
“Grant has to manage both families. Things have been better since Jaimi passed away – there’s less angst, but there’s still an expectation his number one priority is his first family,” the source adds.
Lisa says goodbye again
Just months after Lisa lost her cherished daughter Jaimi, the former Olympian has farewelled another loved one.
Late last month, Lisa revealed her longstanding swimming coach Harry Gallagher had passed away, aged 96. “Sometimes in life you only need one person to believe in you,” she wrote.
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