19 January 2023 , 14:22
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Former EastEnders actress Melissa Suffield has revealed she is solo parenting as husband Robert Brendan has returned to work on a cruise for four months.
Melissa, who is mum to son River, revealed the family has gone from three down to two in an emotional Instagram post.
Accompanied by a heartwarming snap, the former Lucy Beale actress wrote: "And just like that, three becomes two again."
Melissa rose to fame after playing Lucy Beale on EastEnders from 2004 until 2010. Since leaving the soap she met partner Robert Brendan, with the two becoming first time parents to son River in May 2020.
Melissa shared the news of Robert working away on her Instagram (the.confidentmama / Instagram)
Melissa and husband Robert welcomed son River in 2020 (Instagram)Toddler mum Melissa often shares realistic views of her parenting life, including body positivity and realism around weightloss.
EastEnders star Melissa Suffield's epic reply to troll's cruel weight jibe
In her latest Instagram post, she's shared the news that husband Robert will be returning to work on a cruise ship and leaving her to parent River alone. Describing the decision as not 'easy', Melissa told her 53,000 followers about the struggles as Robert leaves.
She wrote: "After a lovely 3 months together, Robert has returned to the ship for another 4 months- so it’s back to mum and River 24/7.
Melissa shares body positivity and parenting content on her Instagram (Instagram)
Toddler mum Melissa has been praised for her positivity (Instagram)"We’ve had a wonderful break, and although we’re all used to this now, it doesn’t get any easier. In fact, it probably gets more difficult- Riv gets more aware, we both start to realise how much he can change in a 4 month window.
"He’s gaining skills DAILY that feel so grown up, it feels like Robert will return to a completely different kid at this point. And although it’s still the right choice for our family, it’s doesn’t make the decision an easy one."
Sharing the news alongside a picture perfect moment as a family, she continued: "But it’s all entirely worth it for moments like these.
Melissa rose to fame as Lucy Beale in EastEnders from 2004 until 2010 (BBC)"Time spent together, or seeing River’s face when we both appear as he wakes, and being able to simply sit and do nothing, with company. Tiny small joys that so many take for granted."
Fans of Melissa's parenting account have shared their best wishes for Melissa and River as they wait for Robert to return.
One follower commented: "Lots of love to you & hope these 4 months go quickly."
Melissa joined EastEnders when she was just 12 years old (BBC)Another added: "I have zero experience of this but I feel for you. Must be tough for you all."
Others rushed in to share their experience as one parent works away from home. One follower commented: "My four month olds Daddy is on a 10 week rotation at sea. The absence is completely different with a little one and there are a whole load of amplified feelings for us all (and I’m aware of when this will kick in for her too.) We find it takes a week to adjust either end, so thinking of you."
EastEnders star delights fans with inspirational body positivity post
Another shared: "I completely understand how you feel. I also go through this my 5 year old now understands what happens but it doesn’t stop the emotions he feels. You're doing the best job!"