The internet was recently captivated by a touching TikTok video featuring Brittanie Lynn Ritchie and her girlfriend, Katie Martin. The video showcased a moment of profound empathy and understanding as Martin hung a photo of Ritchie and her late fiancée, Rochelle “Roe” Hager, in their new home. This simple act sparked a widespread conversation about healing, moving forward, and finding love after loss. The story of Brittanie Lynn Ritchie and Rochelle Hager, a love story that unfolded on TikTok during the height of the pandemic, resonated with millions. Hager’s move from Pennsylvania to Maine to be with Ritchie solidified their commitment and showcased their deep connection. Tragically, their journey was cut short in 2021 when Hager passed away in a freak accident, leaving a void in Ritchie’s life and a community of heartbroken followers.
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Navigating Grief in the Public Eye
Ritchie and Hager’s prominent presence on social media meant that Ritchie’s grieving process was intensely public. “It was a very public grieving process,” Ritchie shared in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. While challenging, Ritchie felt a responsibility to share her journey with their followers, allowing them to witness the raw reality of grief and healing. The outpouring of support from their online community provided comfort and solace during an incredibly difficult time. Hager’s influence on Ritchie’s life extended beyond their shared online presence. “She paved the road for the way I deserve to be treated,” Ritchie confided. “She was so gentle with me, and she taught me what it’s like to be treated well.” These lessons in love and respect became foundational in Ritchie’s healing journey and her approach to future relationships.
A New Chapter: Finding Love with Katie Martin
Despite the immense pain of loss, Ritchie found love again with Katie Martin, whom she also met through TikTok in 2022. Their connection blossomed into a long-distance relationship that spanned two years before they finally moved in together in August 2024. Martin’s remarkable empathy and understanding of Ritchie’s past played a crucial role in their growing love. “She’s always been very supportive,” Ritchie says of Martin. “She wants to know about Roe; it’s almost as if she wants to know her.” This acceptance and willingness to embrace Ritchie’s past, rather than shy away from it, created a safe and supportive environment for their relationship to flourish.
A Viral Moment of Empathy and Acceptance
The TikTok video that captured Martin hanging Hager’s photo wasn’t planned. It was a spontaneous act of love and respect that Ritchie felt compelled to share. “I thought, ‘This is the sweetest thing I’ve ever seen in my life,’ ” Ritchie recalls. The video quickly went viral, resonating with countless individuals who have experienced loss and the complexities of moving forward. The comments section of the video revealed a spectrum of reactions, with some expressing difficulty understanding Ritchie’s situation. Ritchie acknowledged that she once held a similar perspective before experiencing the profound loss of Hager. “Until you really go through it, you never really understand,” she reflects.
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Rochelle’s Wish: A Path Forward
Ritchie recalled a poignant conversation with Hager just two weeks before her passing. “She was like, ‘if anything happens to me, I would want you to move on and be happy,’ ” Ritchie shares. At the time, Ritchie couldn’t fathom the possibility of moving on. However, after Hager’s death, the true meaning of her words resonated deeply. It became clear that Hager’s wish was for Ritchie to find happiness and continue living a full life, even in her absence.
Open Communication and the Power of Understanding
Ritchie emphasizes the vital role of open communication in her relationship with Martin. Martin’s willingness to listen, learn about Hager, and provide a safe space for Ritchie to grieve has been instrumental in their journey together. “Katie just gives me that space to openly grieve the loss of someone that was extremely important in my life,” Ritchie explains. “We are still capable of working on our future together through that.” This open communication and mutual understanding have allowed them to build a strong foundation for their future, honoring the past while embracing the present.
Advice for Others Navigating Love After Loss
Ritchie’s advice to those who have lost a partner is simple yet profound: take it “one day at a time.” Her experience has fostered a deep appreciation for life’s precious moments and the importance of cherishing loved ones. “I hope anyone who has lost a partner is able to find something like Katie is to me,” she says. “Somebody that understands it and gives them a safe and open space to communicate and talk about their late partner.” Ritchie’s story serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the power of love and understanding, and the possibility of finding happiness even after profound loss. Her journey offers hope and inspiration to others navigating the complexities of grief and the courage to embrace new beginnings.
