While the country celebrates the holiday season with loved ones, Mia St. John remembers the memory of a family that does not exist anymore. The five-time world champion has not had it easy when it comes to her personal life. Every time she resounded her victory in the boxing realm, there was another battle at home.

She got married to the popular actor Kristoff St. John in 1991. Both of them were recovering alcoholics who had embarked on their journey of sobriety. While Kristoff was on and off the progress, Mia maintained it for about 30 years. But she relapsed when the actor passed away in 2019 owing to heart issues exasperated by alcohol use. Years later, she opens up about her sobriety, her life through distress, and much more.

Mia St. John details her life through strife

In an appearance on the Tamron Hall Show, the former world champion opened up about her life after the tragic death of her son and ex-husband. Speaking about how much she missed her family, Mia said, “It’s [half her family] missing. It’s like part of our hearts are gone, you know?” She further elaborated on how her daughter, Paris, has stuck by her through the dark times, despite the struggles with her mental health. Mia elaborated, “And she’s always there for me. You know? Supportive, and been strong and you know we help each other through our days.”

Julian St. John was born to the couple in 1989. However, the boy did not have a smooth journey in life. He started showing symptoms of mental health issues. He was admitted to a care center for treatment for his depression and schizophrenia. The couple’s worst fears came true in 2014 when news emerged that Julian had died by suicide at the facility.

His son’s death broke his spirits, and Kristoff resorted to drinking again. Mia remained there in her grief, still navigating sobriety. But a few years later, when Kristoff, her ex-husband, whom she regards as the love of her life, passed away, she relapsed. However, ‘The Knockout’ picked herself up and re-began her journey toward healing. Today, in this progress, she falls back on treasures of the past.

Her favorite memories

A short documentary was screened on the show that outlined the struggles she’s overcome. Following this, the host, Tamron Hall, asked the mental health advocate to speak a little about the best memories she has with her family. A teary-eyed Mia St. John immediately invoked the memories of the holidays she spent with them. She said, “Well, it was the holidays. Oh, it’s so hard when I see his photo, and my son, you know? He was such an amazing man, and I miss him so much. And my daughter misses him, and we just miss our family unit, you know? And there, it was such a happy time. And the holidays were always a special time for us.”

Also Read: Years After Losing Son to Suicide, Mia St. John Reveals the Only Way You Can Control Your Suicidal Thoughts

The pain her family and she endured becomes a constant reminder of the challenges mental health poses to individuals. In this reminder, she finds her calling today. In her efforts to alleviate the struggles of folks similar to her son and ex-husband, she has founded an organization. It stands by those who seek help in dealing with mental health issues, addiction, poverty, and homelessness.

To know more about Mia St. John’s fascinating journey, tune in to the ESFanCast, LIVE this Friday at 11:30 AM ET. We sit down with the female boxing icon who has transcended beyond boxing as a mental health advocate, mother, playboy model, actor, and more.