Lynda Bellingham British actress Date of Birth: 31.05.1948 Country: Great Britain

1. Biography of Linda Bellingham
2. Early Life and Passion for Helping Children
3. A Lifetime of Struggles and Triumphs
4. Revealing the Truth and Advocating for Adoption
5. A Journey to Discover Her Roots
6. A Journey of Self-Acceptance
7. A Legacy of Love and Dedication
8. Carrying on the Cause

Biography of Linda Bellingham

British actress, Linda Bellingham, best known to Russian audiences for her role as Empress Alexandra in the film 'The Romanovs: A Crowned Family', kept a secret for many decades - she was adopted.

Early Life and Passion for Helping Children

From a young age, Bellingham had a burning desire to help other children find loving families, which led her to become involved with the charity 'Barnardo's'. She was a dedicated ambassador for the organization, which focused on adoption and providing assistance to children in need.

A Lifetime of Struggles and Triumphs

Bellingham's husband, Michael Pattemore, shared the story of how she struggled for a long time with the decision to reveal her adoption to the world. She also faced difficulties in establishing a connection with her biological mother, who had abandoned her as an infant. Pattemore supported her throughout the last few months of her battle with colon cancer. He was by her side when she passed away at the age of 66 in a private London clinic.

Revealing the Truth and Advocating for Adoption

Keeping her adoption a secret was especially challenging for Bellingham since she had been an ambassador for 'Barnardo's' since 1990. She was well aware of the countless children still in need of loving families. Pattemore spoke of her dedication, saying, "If she discovered that she could help people in any way, no matter the effort or time required, she always took that step forward. She was one of the most selfless and loving people you could ever meet."

A Journey to Discover Her Roots

Bellingham was adopted at four months old by her Canadian mother, Marjorie, who became pregnant out of wedlock. Marjorie's deeply religious Baptist family could not allow her to keep the child. Bellingham grew up in Buckinghamshire, where her adoptive parents, Donald and Ruth, lovingly raised her as their own. Despite finding happiness in her adopted family, Bellingham always hoped to one day meet her biological mother. She finally made contact with Marjorie when she was 35, after the birth of her youngest son, Robbie. However, Marjorie's family continued to keep the truth hidden, causing Bellingham to feel rejected.

A Journey of Self-Acceptance

Bellingham kept her adoption a secret to protect Donald and Ruth from uncomfortable questions. After Donald and Ruth's passing, Linda finally revealed her adoption in her book, 'Lost and Found', which inspired Michael to share his own experiences growing up in a foster family. He hoped that by revealing their stories, they could help others. Michael is now responsible for overseeing all of Linda's affairs in the 'Barnardo's' foundation.

A Legacy of Love and Dedication

Despite Linda's untimely death, Michael fondly remembers the ten years they spent together. He remarks on her youthful spirit, her ambition to win an Oscar even at 75, and their unbreakable bond. "We were soulmates, never once argued, and were always on the same wavelength," he says. "We shared the same sense of humor, were both hardworking, and loved life. We didn't need to ask each other what we were thinking because we already knew. It's an amazing feeling."

Carrying on the Cause

In the days leading up to Linda's death, she asked Michael to continue her charitable work after she was gone. He agreed, on the condition that 'Barnardo's' also supported the decision. Having met many foster families himself and experienced their kindness and love, Michael's words hold weight. He concludes, "I went through it all myself, so my words are not just empty promises."