Valerie Bertinelli is celebrating a significant milestone—two years of newfound freedom since her divorce from Tom Vitale. The former Food Network star took to social media to share an uplifting message with her followers, emphasizing that life can and does improve over time.
Reflecting on her journey, Bertinelli expressed the struggles she faced throughout her tumultuous marriage, which officially ended in November 2022. In her heartfelt post, she shared, “I didn’t know how I was going to get through it, but somehow, I knew I would.” Now, with two years behind her, she proudly acknowledges the progress she has made in overcoming self-doubt and embracing her true self.
Bertinelli noted the importance of acknowledging the past, stating, “Two years of knowing that I didn’t deserve to tolerate the intolerable.” While she continues to work through feelings of shame and self-loathing, she remains focused on self-discovery and personal growth. She credited her recent relationship with Mike Goodnough for allowing her to experience love once again, even after their split following ten months of dating.
Looking forward, Bertinelli described her current chapter as her “last,” emphasizing the necessity of self-love and acceptance, both the dark and light aspects of herself. She highlighted that true emotional vulnerability requires one to first nurture oneself. In her words, “You must give it to yourself first so that you can share it.”
Despite the challenges that still arise, Bertinelli reassured her fans that brighter days do come, offering words of encouragement to those who might be struggling. “Some days will be hard and challenging, but on other days, the light will shine brighter and you will feel it,” she affirmed, extending her gratitude to her supporters for their compassion and feedback throughout her healing process.
Bertinelli’s journey has been marked by resilience. She previously announced her “happily divorced” status from Vitale after they met back in 2004. Their engagement in March 2010 led to a marriage in January 2011, but after a decade, Bertinelli filed for legal separation in November 2021. Also notable is her past marriage to rock legend Eddie Van Halen, which lasted from 1981 until 2007, culminating in a profound personal loss when he passed away in 2020.
As she moves forward in life, Bertinelli remains a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding others that even in the face of adversity, healing and happiness are achievable.
