The Impact of Addiction on the Tragic Loss of Lauri Peterson's Son Joshua

Lauri Peterson’s son, Joshua-Michael Waring, passed away due to his struggle with addiction, as shared by his sister Ashley Zarlin.

Zarlin, who is Peterson's eldest daughter, expressed on Instagram on Saturday, April 6, that addiction is a disease that can distort and destroy, leaving behind shattered dreams and broken hearts.

Peterson, who is 63 years old, had shared the heartbreaking news of her son's passing on her Instagram account. She expressed her deep sorrow over the death of Waring, who passed away on March 31 at the age of 35.

In her emotional tribute, the former Real Housewives of Orange County star mentioned how her son was incredibly talented and full of potential. However, his life took a different turn due to his struggles with addiction. Peterson mourned the missed opportunities of growing together, sharing laughter, and pursuing dreams as adults. She reflected on the conversations they will never have and the dreams that will remain unfulfilled. She also dwelled on the "what-ifs" and the different paths Waring could have taken if only he had received better support instead of empty promises and closed doors.

"My mom's endless love and unwavering support for him will always stay with me. She stood by him, never giving up on the hope that he could beat his struggles. I wish things could have turned out differently with all my heart. I wish I could have done more to guide him back to a better place. While I mourn his absence, I hold onto the memories of the person he used to be, before addiction took hold of him."

‘RHOC’ Alum Lauri Peterson’s Daughter Ashley Says Addiction Factored into Brother Joshua's Death

Lauri Peterson, along with her husband George Peterson, and their daughters Ashley and Sophie, are the surviving family members of Waring. Additionally, Waring is also survived by his daughter Kennady. In 2015, Lauri adopted Kennady amidst Waring's battle with alcoholism.

Zarlin mourns the loss of Waring and "countless others who have been failed by a system that should have been their lifeline." She expressed this on Instagram, emphasizing the need for change and reform in the healthcare system.

She highlighted the importance of prioritizing compassion and support in the healthcare system. Zarlin noted that many, like Joshua, have faced shortcomings and limitations in the current system. She hopes for a world where compassion and effective support systems replace judgment and neglect, so that those in need can receive the help they deserve.

‘RHOC’ Alum Lauri Peterson’s Daughter Ashley Says Addiction Factored into Brother Joshua's Death

Lauri Peterson with daughter Ashley and son Joshua. Courtesy of Ashley Zarlin/Instagram

Zarlin expressed his hope that Josh has found the peace he has been searching for. He reassured Josh that he is no longer in pain and can finally rest. Zarlin ended by saying, "I love you."

If you or someone you know is facing challenges with substance abuse, you can reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Editor's P/S:

The article paints a heart-wrenching portrayal of the devastating effects of addiction, as exemplified by the loss of Joshua-Michael Waring. Lauri Peterson's raw and emotional tribute to her son highlights the profound pain and missed opportunities that accompany such a tragedy. It also exposes the shortcomings of a healthcare system that has failed countless individuals like Joshua, leaving them without the necessary support and compassion.

Ashley Zarlin's poignant words underscore the urgent need for reform in the healthcare system. She emphasizes the importance of prioritizing compassion and support, rather than judgment and neglect, to create a system that truly serves those in need. Her message resonates with the countless individuals who have been let down by a system that should have been their lifeline. It is a call to action to create a society where addiction is recognized as a disease, not a moral failing, and where those struggling with it receive the help they deserve.