Shannen Doherty, the beloved star from hits like “90210” and “Charmed,” made a poignant confession in her final months before passing away last week.
Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015, Doherty enjoyed a short period of remission before revealing in 2020 that her cancer had made a devastating return. Tragically, it spread, and she succumbed to her illness on Saturday, July 13.
In a heart-wrenching twist, just a year before her death, Doherty filed for divorce from her husband of 11 years, Kurt Iswarienko.
Their separation was fraught with complications, yet, remarkably, only 24 hours before her death, Doherty made the decision to waive spousal support.
Additionally, it was reported that Doherty consented to a ‘default or uncontested dissolution’ of their marriage.
A document from PEOPLE stated, “The parties have entered into a written agreement regarding their property and their marriage or domestic partnership rights, including support, the original of which is being or has been submitted to the court.”
Prior to their separation, Doherty had expressed a deep desire to start a family with Iswarienko.
In an emotional episode of her podcast “Let’s Be Clear” in January, she shared: “Not only did I want a child for myself, but I wanted it for my husband. I wanted it for our marriage. I wanted him to have that part of himself fulfilled as well.”
The couple tied the knot in 2011, and Doherty underwent several cycles of IVF. Unfortunately, her cancer diagnosis in 2015 forced her to cease IVF treatments, ending their hopes of conceiving naturally.
By the end of last year, Doherty reiterated her longing to become a mother.
“I think I would love nothing more than to be a mom,” she mentioned to PEOPLE. “I always wanted it.”
Regarding adoption, Doherty contemplated, “I look at kids who don’t have parents at all, and I think if I adopt a child or whatever it is, any amount of time is better than nothing. Maybe. I don’t know.”
Although she never had children of her own, Doherty cherished her relationships with her best friend’s children and her brother’s seven kids.
If concerns about infertility are weighing on you, help is available. Contact the Resolve helpline to speak with a knowledgeable volunteer who can direct you to supportive resources.
You can call 866.NOT.ALONE (866.668.2566) to leave a message and a volunteer will respond within three days. For professional advice, please contact a local fertility specialist.