Prince Harry has said losing a parent as a child can be “overwhelming and isolating”.
The 40-year-old Duke of Sussex was aged 12 when his late mother Princess Diana was killed aged 36 on August 1997 after a high-speed Paris car smash, and he has now referenced his torment over her death in a poignant letter to members of Scotty’s Little Soldiers – a charity that supports youngsters who have lost a military mother or father.
Harry said in his note he understands “perhaps more than most, the weight of losing a parent at a young age” – adding: “It can be overwhelming and isolating. Yet, in the midst of that heartache, we find strength in the love and memories left behind, and I have seen how communities like yours can offer deep comfort and healing.”
He also said: “I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the values that your loved ones instilled in you – courage, compassion, and a sense of purpose. These will serve as your guiding light, helping you navigate the challenges ahead.”
Harry also appeared in a photo with his message, wearing a Scotty’s scarf and a poppy pin – a symbol of remembrance for more than 100 years.
He went on about how people should build support systems: “In coming together to support one another, you not only honour the memories of your loved ones but also forge bonds that can and will carry you through the toughest times.
“The tears and laughter, the shared experiences, and the moments of joy you create together are powerful reminders that love endures.
“Your resilience is a testament to the legacy of your loved ones, and I have every confidence in your ability to make them proud and to shine bright in the world. All they want is for you to be happy.”
