Michelle Saniei is thanking fans for the outpouring of support following the latest episode of The Valley.
During episode All Aboard!, Michelle shared an emotional moment with Lala Kent as the two opened up about losing their parents.
ICYMI: Lala’s father, Kent Burningham, passed away suddenly on April 21, 2018, at age 64 after suffering a stroke in his sleep.
Vanderpump Rules viewers watched much of Lala’s grief journey play out on camera in the years that followed.
For Michelle, her mother Lourdes passed away on November 5, 2024, at age 68 following a stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis.
Throughout season 2 of The Valley, Michelle has spoken candidly about how devastating the loss was — especially after the cancer was initially mistaken for food poisoning before doctors discovered how advanced it had become.
Michelle has repeatedly described her mother as her “best friend.”
Following the May 5 episode, Michelle took to Instagram to reflect on the response from viewers.
“Thank you all for your messages, stories, and kindness,” Michelle wrote.
“Reading so many of your experiences with grief and loss has meant more to me than I can explain. I may not be able to respond to everyone, but please know I’m reading them and deeply appreciate every message.”
The beach conversation between Lala and Michelle ended up being one of the more vulnerable moments of the season and clearly resonated with viewers navigating grief themselves.
As we approach Mother’s Day, we’re sending love to anyone struggling with the loss of a parent or loved one!
