Author: RoyalDouglas

MAFS Star Erica Roberts Mourns the Loss of Her Grandmother: “Heaven Has Gained the Greatest Angel”

July 19, 2025 — Married At First Sight star Erica Roberts has shared heartbreaking news with her fans and followers, revealing the passing of her beloved grandmother, Jessie. In an emotional social media post that has since drawn thousands of responses, Erica paid tribute to the woman who played a pivotal role in her life, calling her “the greatest angel” and describing the profound void her death has left behind.

Taking to Instagram, Erica posted a heartfelt message accompanied by a cherished photograph of her and her grandmother smiling together during happier times. Her caption read:

“Today, my heart is shattered. I’ve lost the woman who meant the absolute world to me. My beautiful gran Jessie passed away peacefully, surrounded by those who loved her most. Heaven has gained the greatest angel, but my world feels a little colder without her in it.”

Fans of Erica, who became a household name after appearing on the popular reality show Married At First Sight, immediately flooded the comments with messages of support and condolences. Many followers noted how often Erica spoke about her grandmother during the show, emphasizing how close their bond truly was. Jessie was more than just family to Erica — she was a best friend, a mentor, and a source of unwavering love and encouragement.

In her post, Erica went on to describe Jessie as “a light in every room she walked into,” remembering her for her laughter, kindness, and the wisdom she imparted over the years.

“She taught me everything that truly matters — how to love deeply, how to forgive, how to stay strong in the face of pain, and how to always find a reason to smile. Her strength was unparalleled, and her grace was something I could only hope to embody.”

Though Erica did not reveal specific details about the cause of Jessie’s passing, she did note that her grandmother “went peacefully,” with her hand held and music playing in the background — just the way she would have wanted.

Throughout her time in the spotlight, Erica frequently spoke about how her grandmother had been a guiding force in her life. During interviews and social media Q&As, she often credited Jessie with giving her the courage to join Married At First Sight and to remain true to herself despite the pressures of fame.

“She always reminded me that love begins with being real,” Erica once said in a behind-the-scenes MAFS interview. “No matter what, Gran believed in me — even when I didn’t believe in myself.”

Erica’s tribute ended with a heartfelt message to Jessie:

“I will carry you with me forever, Gran. Thank you for every story, every hug, every late-night tea and talk, and for being the heart of our family. Until we meet again… I love you more than words can ever say.”

The post struck a chord not only with her fans but also with fellow MAFS cast members, many of whom commented with their own words of support and shared how evident Jessie’s love had been in Erica’s life.

As the reality TV star navigates this painful chapter, she has asked for privacy and space to grieve with her family but expressed immense gratitude for the outpouring of love.

In the wake of her loss, Erica’s tribute serves as a touching reminder of the deep bonds that shape our lives beyond the screen. Jessie may no longer be physically present, but her legacy — one of compassion, resilience, and warmth — clearly lives on in her granddaughter.

Rest in peace, Jessie.

Texas Doctor’s License Suspended After Infant Deaths Highlight Serious Lapses in Care

In a deeply troubling case that has drawn attention from both the medical community and the general public, a veteran obstetrician from El Paso, Texas, has had her medical license temporarily suspended following the tragic deaths of two newborns. Dr. Yolanda Lagunas, a physician with nearly 40 years of experience in obstetrics and gynecology, is now at the center of a major investigation launched by the Texas Medical Board, which found serious deficiencies in the quality of care she provided during childbirth.

According to official documents released by the Board, Dr. Lagunas failed to respond appropriately to critical signs of fetal distress during the labor of at least one patient, resulting in the preventable death of the baby. The most alarming incident cited in the Board’s findings involved a protracted 12-hour vaginal delivery during which continuous and escalating signs of fetal distress were documented. Despite those warnings — which included decelerations in the baby’s heart rate and other indicators of an oxygen-deprived fetus — Dr. Lagunas reportedly chose to continue attempting a vaginal delivery rather than performing an emergency cesarean section, the standard of care in such situations.

Ultimately, the infant did not survive the birth, and the death was later deemed avoidable by both hospital quality review committees and independent medical experts. A second case involving Dr. Lagunas reportedly involved similarly delayed interventions and led to another infant death, prompting the Board to act swiftly in order to prevent further harm.

In its ruling, the Texas Medical Board cited “major issues” with Dr. Lagunas’s clinical judgment, response time, and adherence to established protocols in obstetrical emergencies. The temporary suspension was issued under an emergency provision that allows the Board to act in cases where a physician’s continued practice poses “a continuing threat to the public welfare.” The decision to suspend her license without a prior hearing underscores the severity of the situation.

“This is an extraordinary and tragic case,” said a spokesperson for the Texas Medical Board. “When a physician fails to respond to life-threatening conditions during childbirth, the results can be devastating. Our responsibility is to protect patients from unsafe practices, and in this case, we believe immediate action was necessary.”

Dr. Lagunas has not yet made a public statement, but sources close to her say she plans to challenge the suspension and is preparing for a formal hearing where she will have an opportunity to defend her actions. Some in the El Paso medical community have expressed shock over the allegations, as Dr. Lagunas was long considered a trusted and experienced practitioner. However, others point out that even long-standing experience cannot be an excuse for ignoring signs of fetal distress or delaying life-saving interventions.

For the families affected, the pain is immeasurable. One grieving mother, speaking anonymously through her legal representative, described the experience as “a nightmare that no parent should ever have to live through.” Her family has since filed a malpractice suit against Dr. Lagunas, citing gross negligence and emotional distress.

Medical experts across the country say the case is a painful reminder of the critical importance of adhering to evidence-based practices during labor and delivery — especially in high-risk situations. “Obstetrics is a field where minutes can mean the difference between life and death,” said Dr. Alicia Roman, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist not involved in the case. “If there are clear signs that a baby is in distress, a cesarean section must be performed without hesitation. Delays are not just dangerous — they can be fatal.”

The suspension of Dr. Lagunas’s license will remain in effect pending the outcome of a full disciplinary hearing. In the meantime, the Texas Medical Board has encouraged any patients or medical professionals with additional concerns or information to come forward as the investigation continues.

As this case unfolds, it brings to light broader concerns about oversight, communication, and accountability within the healthcare system — particularly in cases involving maternal and neonatal outcomes. For now, the families who have suffered irreparable loss are left searching for answers, hoping that their tragedies may serve as a catalyst for greater vigilance and reform.

Tragedy in Oklahoma: Pediatrician Accused of Killing Her 4-Year-Old Daughter and Staging Drowning

Oklahoma — A heartbreaking and deeply disturbing case has rocked the community and medical profession alike as authorities allege that an Oklahoma pediatrician, once entrusted with caring for children’s lives, is now facing charges for taking her own daughter’s life.

Dr. Misty Ann Carter, a 43-year-old pediatrician based in Norman, Oklahoma, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder in the death of her 4-year-old daughter, Lily Carter. Investigators say the mother, who had no known history of violence or abuse, intentionally killed her daughter and attempted to cover up the crime by staging the scene as a tragic accidental drowning.

The incident unfolded on the evening of July 17, 2025, when emergency services were called to the Carter family home following a 911 report of a child found unresponsive in a backyard pool. When paramedics arrived, they found Dr. Carter performing CPR on her daughter, who was reportedly pulled from the water minutes earlier. Lily was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

Initially, the scene appeared to be a heartbreaking case of a child drowning — a tragedy that occurs all too often, even among watchful families. But something didn’t sit right with investigators.

“We found inconsistencies in the mother’s account of events,” said Norman Police Chief Jason Hayworth during a press briefing. “And when the medical examiner’s findings contradicted the claims of accidental drowning, we knew we were dealing with something far more sinister.”

According to the autopsy report, Lily’s body showed signs inconsistent with drowning. There was water in her lungs, but not to the extent expected in a drowning fatality. More alarmingly, pathologists discovered evidence of blunt force trauma to the head and upper torso, and bruising that suggested prolonged physical abuse or restraint.

Detectives say surveillance footage from neighboring homes revealed a startling timeline. Lily had not been seen entering or playing near the pool that day. Furthermore, digital data from Dr. Carter’s phone revealed troubling internet searches in the days leading up to her daughter’s death — including inquiries about methods of “quick child death” and “drowning without water in lungs.”

The medical community and public alike are reeling from the arrest. Dr. Carter was a respected figure in the community, having served as a pediatrician at Norman Regional Health System for over a decade. Known for her calm demeanor and attentiveness to her young patients, colleagues expressed disbelief over the accusations.

“She loved her patients. She was always the first to volunteer for school events or flu clinics,” said a former coworker who asked to remain anonymous. “It’s impossible to comprehend how the same woman could do something so horrific to her own child.”

Law enforcement officials believe that Carter may have been struggling with undiagnosed mental health issues. Close friends of the family told investigators that Carter had recently exhibited signs of emotional distress following a bitter custody battle with her ex-husband, Lily’s father, who had been seeking shared custody. Though there were no restraining orders or prior reports of abuse filed against Dr. Carter, court documents show an increasingly hostile legal struggle over parental rights.

Prosecutors now allege that Dr. Carter killed her daughter out of a misguided desire to “prevent her from being taken away,” staging the drowning to cover her tracks. She has since been denied bond and remains in custody at the Cleveland County Detention Center.

The case has sparked a broader conversation about mental health awareness in high-stress professions like healthcare, and the importance of early intervention when signs of emotional or psychological instability begin to appear — even in those who appear highly functional.

Lily Carter’s father, who has asked for privacy during this devastating time, released a brief statement through his attorney: “Lily was the light of my life. I am heartbroken beyond words. All I want now is justice for my little girl.”

A memorial of teddy bears, candles, and flowers continues to grow outside the Carter home, as the community struggles to make sense of the unthinkable — a trusted doctor and mother now accused of becoming the very threat she swore to guard against.

Funeral arrangements for Lily are currently underway. Meanwhile, the case against Dr. Carter is expected to go before a grand jury in the coming weeks. If convicted of first-degree murder, she could face life in prison without parole.

SUSPECTED WATERMELON FESTIVAL SHOOTER CHARGED: Teen in Custody for Fatal Shooting at South Carolina Celebration

South Carolina – A once vibrant and joyful summer event turned into a scene of unimaginable tragedy, and now justice may be within reach. Authorities have confirmed that the teenage suspect accused of fatally shooting another teen during the annual Watermelon Festival has been formally charged with murder. The shocking incident, which took place amid crowds of families and children gathered to celebrate a cherished local tradition, has left an entire community grieving and searching for answers.

The shooting unfolded in the heart of the festival grounds late Saturday evening. What was supposed to be an evening of food, laughter, music, and togetherness quickly descended into chaos as gunfire rang out in the midst of the crowd. Witnesses reported a sudden eruption of panic as attendees scrambled for cover, unsure where the shots were coming from or who was hurt.

According to law enforcement officials, the suspect — a 16-year-old male whose name is being withheld due to his age — was apprehended after an intense manhunt that stretched into the early hours of Sunday morning. Authorities worked through the night, sifting through witness statements, video footage, and physical evidence to piece together the series of events that led to the fatal confrontation.

The victim, also a teenager, was pronounced dead at the scene. The name of the victim has not yet been released to the public as authorities work to notify all family members. However, community members describe him as a “good kid” who was “full of life,” with aspirations to graduate high school and pursue a career in engineering. His sudden and senseless death has sent shockwaves through the small South Carolina town that hosts the Watermelon Festival — an event that for decades has served as a beloved gathering place for neighbors near and far.

Investigators say the shooting may have stemmed from an ongoing dispute between the suspect and the victim, but they are not yet releasing detailed motives as the investigation remains active. “This was not a random act of violence,” said County Sheriff Thomas Wylie at a press briefing on Sunday afternoon. “We believe there was a personal conflict involved, but bringing a gun to a public event and firing it into a crowd is something no community should ever have to witness.”

The teenage suspect has been charged with murder and possession of a firearm during the commission of a violent crime. Authorities are also investigating whether other individuals may have been involved in aiding the suspect before or after the shooting.

The arrest offers some measure of relief to residents still reeling from the traumatic events, but the emotional wounds remain fresh. Many parents who were at the festival with their children say they are struggling to explain what happened. “We came out for funnel cakes and music. I never thought we’d have to run for our lives,” said local mother Tara Jones, who witnessed the incident.

Counseling services are being made available to festival-goers, and a candlelight vigil is being planned to honor the life of the young victim. The town mayor has vowed to revisit public safety protocols for future events, stating that “security will be tighter, and we will work with law enforcement to ensure something like this never happens again.”

Community leaders are calling for unity in the aftermath of the tragedy. “We can’t undo what happened,” said Pastor Reggie Martin, who leads a local church. “But we can come together and make sure this young man’s life is not forgotten. We must work harder to provide hope, resources, and safety for our youth.”

As the legal process begins for the accused shooter, the community will continue to mourn — not just the loss of one young life, but the shattering of innocence in a space meant for joy and tradition. The Watermelon Festival will never be quite the same, but residents hope that through healing, reform, and remembrance, they can begin to reclaim peace in their town.

In Loving Memory of Shirley Pliszka
“A life that touches others goes on forever.”

This is Shirley’s brother, Dan, posting from her account to share a heartfelt message and a reminder for all those who loved her: Shirley Pliszka has passed on, and while our hearts are heavy, we are also grateful for the beautiful life she lived and the love she shared so generously.

Shirley was more than a sister—she was a radiant soul who left an indelible mark on every person fortunate enough to cross her path. Whether you knew her as a sibling, a friend, a neighbor, or simply someone who brightened your day with a smile or a kind word, you understand how deeply she cared for others. Shirley’s warmth, grace, and faith were constant sources of strength, and her quiet resilience inspired us all.

We will gather to honor Shirley’s memory on Friday, July 25, 2025, through a Catholic Mass of Christian Burial. This will be a time not only of mourning but also of gratitude—for the years we had with her, the memories we’ll forever cherish, and the unwavering love she offered so freely.

Funeral Service Details:
🕊️ Visitation: 10:00 a.m.
✝️ Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m.
🍽️ Reception to follow

Location of Mass:
St. Mary’s Catholic Church
1234 Grace Avenue
Hometown, State ZIP

All are welcome—friends, extended family, and anyone whose life Shirley touched. Please come as you are, bring your prayers, your stories, and your love. Let us surround Shirley with light as we send her home to eternal rest.

To my dear sister Shirley:
Rest in Peace.
You were a great sister—steadfast, kind, and always willing to listen. You loved deeply and lived humbly, and your absence leaves a void that words cannot fill. We love you, and we always will.

Please share this message with others who may not have seen it. Thank you all for your support, kind words, and prayers during this time. It means more than you know.

With love,
Dan (Shirley’s Brother)