August M
A woman who misled those closest to her with an elaborate fake pregnancy has now spoken publicly for the first time.
Her apology follows widespread attention and questions over how the deception unfolded, reports the Mirror.
Public apology shared
Kira Cousins has addressed the controversy in a TikTok video, acknowledging the impact of her actions on those around her.
According to the Mirror, the 22-year-old from Airdrie said she had struggled with how to respond publicly after the story emerged.
She said: “I have went to record this so many times. I keep thinking – am I saying the right thing or what are people going to think? Regardless of what I do going forward, people are always going to have an opinion on it. I am not going to live my life thinking is that okay to post”.
The Mirror reported that she also thanked those who had sent supportive messages following the backlash.
Deception uncovered
The case first came to light in October, when it emerged that Cousins had convinced friends and family she had given birth to a baby girl.
According to the Mirror, she had worn a fake pregnancy bump for months before the truth was discovered.
Her mother later found that the supposed newborn was in fact a realistic reborn doll kept in her bedroom.
The Mirror reported that the deception included sharing scans, hospital visits and other updates to make the pregnancy appear genuine.
Impact on family
Cousins’ former partner was also misled, believing he had become a father before being told the baby had died.
She said: “People took what is out there in different ways. At the end of the day, whether people think I’m worthy of living a life, I do still have a life to live.”
According to the Mirror, she described the situation as a “rollercoaster” and said she had sought help following the events.
Her statement also included thanks to her family and friends, acknowledging the strain the situation placed on them.
Ongoing attention
The Mirror reported that Cousins had previously posted videos online without addressing the controversy, prompting criticism from other users.
She later responded indirectly, referencing calls for her to speak out before eventually issuing a full apology.
Plans for a documentary about the case have since been dropped, according to the Mirror.
Separately, she has continued posting online, including advertising puppies from her dog to followers.
Sources: Mirror
