Kelly Ripa, the beloved co-host of “Live with Kelly and Mark,” rarely mentions her sister, Linda Ripa, on the show. Linda has a heartbreaking backstory that includes a devastating accident and the coma of her unborn child. In this article, we delve into the life of Linda Ripa, her relationship with Kelly, and the challenges she has faced.
Early Life and Career
Linda Ripa was born in 1972 to Esther and Joseph Ripa, two years younger than her famous sister Kelly. The sisters were raised in New Jersey, just a short train ride away from New York City, where Kelly films her show. Linda’s father, Joseph, proudly shared a throwback photo of Linda on her birthday, expressing his pride in his daughter.
Both Kelly and Linda have pursued careers in the arts. Linda wrote and illustrated a children’s book titled “The Lady Bug Blues” in 2002, showcasing her talent and creativity. Meanwhile, Kelly released her own book, “Live Wire: Long-Winded Short Stories,” in 2022, further highlighting the shared passion for storytelling in the Ripa family.
The Tragic Accident
In 1999, Linda Ripa’s life took a devastating turn. While running errands in Pennsylvania, Linda, who was seven months pregnant at the time, was involved in a horrific car accident caused by a drunk driver. The collision resulted in severe injuries for Linda, including multiple broken bones and a crushed pelvis.
The impact of the accident had a profound effect on Linda’s unborn child. Due to her crushed pelvis, her baby, Sergio-Giuseppe Ripa, went into a coma in utero. Linda’s injuries required multiple surgeries and a lengthy recovery process, during which her parents, Esther and Joseph, stepped in to support Linda and help raise her child.
The Road to Recovery
Following the accident, Linda faced a long and challenging road to recovery. She was bedridden for over a year and underwent numerous surgeries to heal her injuries. Throughout this difficult time, Kelly would visit Linda and her nephew, Michael, providing support and love.
Linda’s journey to healing was not easy, but she remained strong and resilient. She relied on the unwavering support of her family, including her parents and Kelly, who described her mother as a constant caregiver to Linda. Despite the challenges, Linda found solace in her passion for drawing and storytelling, sharing her talents with her nephew and son.
Linda’s Role as an Aunt
Linda Ripa is not only Kelly’s sister but also an aunt to Kelly’s three children: Michael, Lola, and Joaquin. Linda’s accident and the subsequent challenges she faced deeply impacted her perspective on life. Kelly has spoken about how her sister’s experience has made her appreciate the importance of family and the blessings of having healthy children.
Kelly has often expressed her gratitude for her three beautiful and healthy kids, emphasizing that even if everything else were to disappear, her family would remain her greatest treasure. Linda plays an important role in the lives of her nieces and nephews, providing love, support, and a unique perspective on life’s challenges.
Sergio-Giuseppe Ripa: The Miracle Baby
Sergio-Giuseppe Ripa, Linda’s son, is often referred to as the “miracle baby” due to the extraordinary circumstances surrounding his birth. Born seven weeks prematurely, Sergio faced significant challenges because of the accident that left his mother bedridden. However, he defied the odds and overcame the obstacles he encountered.
Today, Sergio is a talented musician, showcasing his skills on the guitar and performing with his band. He shares updates and videos of his performances on his Instagram account, giving fans a glimpse into his musical journey. Kelly has proudly celebrated her nephew’s accomplishments, sharing rare photos and expressing her love and support.
Conclusion
Linda Ripa’s tragic accident and the subsequent coma of her unborn child have profoundly impacted her life and the lives of those around her. Despite the challenges she has faced, Linda remains a source of inspiration and resilience. Supported by her loving family, including her sister Kelly, Linda has found strength in her art and storytelling.
Through their shared experiences and the bond of sisterhood, Kelly Ripa and Linda Ripa have navigated the highs and lows of life together. Linda’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of family, resilience, and cherishing the blessings we have. As Linda continues to thrive as an author and illustrator, her journey stands as a testament to the power of determination and love in the face of adversity.