Just An Ordinary Girl

I was very sad to hear that Sarah Harding has died, losing her battle with Breast cancer. Why do the good and beautiful die so young? She was only 39 years of age! A member of one of my favourite Girl Bands “Girls Aloud”, Sarah will always be the girl next door to me. She was so talented, being an actress as well as a singer, I’ll always remember Sarah in St.Trinian’s.

Being so much younger than myself, Sarah was born in 1981 and went to school in Egham until 1993. She was raised in a family of step-siblings and when her parents split when she was 14, Sarah 'disowned’ her father (listen, it was her business only!). Sarah changed her surname to Harding and moved on with her life, going to High School and College like any other young lady.

Sarah believed in working hard and her CV is impressive. Sarah worked in nightclubs, as a waitress, a van driver, debt collector and a BT telephone operator. All of this before going into Show-business. Like many today, Sarah did have her ‘issues’ --- in or out of the business. She entered rehab citing alcohol dependence and depression, which helped Sarah to pull her life together.

It was last year (2020) that Sarah was diagnosed with Breast cancer, which had advanced to other areas of her body. She went through treatment, living with her mum, but realized that the cancer was terminal. We lost her angel voice on the 5th of this month.

No, I did not know Sarah personally, however, she came across as a very normal young woman who gave hope to her own generation --- Sarah showed what we can do if we really believe in ourselves! Rather than me ‘talking’ just read some of the tributes:

“She was a bright shining star and I hope that’s how she can be remembered.” Sarah’s mum.

“Hearing your infectious chuckle was one of my favourite things in the world. Your fire burned so bright and you loved, lived and laughed so hard.” Kimberley Walsh.

“You gave it everything and still with a smile. A white butterfly flew past my window this morning before I knew, it must have been you.” Nicola Roberts.

“When the studio was at its most hectic she was the one having the most fun.” Brian Higgins.

“Rest in peace, Sarah Harding. You’ll be remembered for the light and joy you brought to the world.” Geri Horner.

“She was fun and loved music, dancing and life.” Louis Walsh.

“The times we met she was always so bubbly, such a big beautiful personality.” Oritse Williams.

“Dainty blonde I ain’t. I’ve got a t-shirt that says ‘Well-behaved women don’t make history.’ Sarah Harding.

For those of you who may not be familiar with Sarah’s achievements, here are a few listed: Sarah joined up with Nadine, Cheryl, Nicola and Kimberley to form the band “Girls Aloud”, who hold the record for the shortest time between formation and reaching number one. “Sound of the Underground” was that number one which became the Christmas number one in 2002. The album of the same name reached platinum. They won the best single award at the Brits Awards in 2009 --- “The Promise”.

And we promise never to forget you Sarah --- thankyou for bringing your magic to this world x