Lauri Peterson’s daughter Ashley Zarlin says ‘relentless grip of addiction’ led to brother Joshua’s death

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: 'Real Housewives of Orange County' alum Lauri Peterson’s daughter Ashley Zarlin has shared her devastation after a “relentless grip of addiction” claimed her brother’s life.

Joshua Waring was 35 when he died on March 31, Us Weekly reported.

Ashley Zarlin remembers Joshua as ‘brilliant’

Taking to Instagram, Ashley posted multiple throwback photos with her younger brother while writing, “On Easter Sunday, I lost my brother to the relentless grip of addiction. It’s a disease that distorts and destroys, leaving behind shattered dreams and broken hearts.”

She continued on Saturday, April 6, “He was brilliant and had limitless potential, but addiction veered him off course. 

“My heart aches for the lost opportunities for us to grow together as adults, to share laughter and dreams, the conversations that we will never get to have, and the dreams that will be left unfulfilled. 

“My thoughts linger on the what-ifs, the alternate paths he could have taken if only the system had offered more than empty promises and closed doors,” the daughter of the 'Real Housewives of Orange County' alum noted.

Ashley Zarlin says ‘addiction stole’ her brother away

Ashley also expressed her remorse for “not doing much” as she stated, “I wish for a different outcome with every fiber of my being. I wish I could have done more, been more, to help him find his way back to the light.”

“As I grieve his loss, I cherish the memories of who he truly was, before addiction stole him away. My little brother,” Ashley said, before adding, “I mourn not only for the loss of my brother but also for the countless others who have been failed by a system that should have been their lifeline.”

In her post, she even mentioned, “Our healthcare system is riddled with shortcomings and limitations, and failed him time and again. I pray for a world where compassion and effective support systems replace judgment and neglect, so that others may find the help they desperately need.”

People pray for Joshua and his family

Ashley’s heartbreaking post received support from other users as one wrote, “Oh Ashley my heart is broken reading this & your loss is hard to understand. I have so many sweet memories of Josh on the playground. He was a sweet little boy. 😢. He is no longer in pain I will keep you in my prayers love Vi🤍.”

Another user shared, “Ashley- my heart breaks for you. Thinking of you all during this difficult time. I love you. 💔”

The third one noted, “Regardless of his struggles, I knew him to be a smart, kind, and witty young man. Always very respectful to me and my husband, and a great conversationalist. We were so sad to hear the news of his passing. Wishing you and your family peace during the difficult time. May he rest in peace.”

“I am so devastated for your family. I know it wasn’t easy to share this and I applaud your courage and strength to open yourself up but also to bring awareness to addiction. Praying for your family and may He surround you with comfort and peace,” the fourth one stated.

The fifth user added, “These are the most precious photos!! 🥹 my thoughts are always with you but especially during this difficult time!!!! 💞”

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