Roz Purcell has revealed her sister is battling leukaemia.
The top model has been living with her 28-year-old sister, Rachel and admitted she got her puppy Wilko when it was recommended a pet could help with her sister’s stress levels.
“When my sister Rachel was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia earlier this year, one of the things she was advised to do was to keep her stress levels down, and it was suggested to us that we get a dog.
“Rachel and I live together in Dublin, so it made sense because we love dogs and had wanted one for a while,” she told the Irish Independent.
Roz, who recently split from Voice of Ireland judge Bressie, added that she wanted to get a rescue puppy and admitted it’s helped Rachel be more active.
“We chose to rescue a pup because there are so many dogs out there that need really good homes, and because I’ve done lots of work with animal charities, I always said I’d go to one when the time came to get my own dog.”
“Having Wilko has helped Rachel so much because having a pet there really encourages you to go out every day walking.”
“CML is a long term illness, but Rachel is very positive about it and has been reaching health milestones since her diagnosis in January.
“Wilko is such good company, so full of energy and always so happy which is contagious. It’s the ultimate distraction and de-stresser,” she said.
