
Prince William reflected on his “worst pain” in the memory of his late mother, Princess Diana, at a recent charity event.
The Prince of Wales made the speech at a private dinner held at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, where he marked the 30th anniversary of one of his oldest patronages Child Bereavement UK.
William, who lost his mother in a Paris car crash when he was only 15, described grief as “the very worst pain any child or parent will ever endure” as he addressed the gathering.
“While we cannot prevent these losses, we can ensure that every possible type of expert support and care is given, to help rebuild the lives of those affected,” added William, who has been a patron of the charity since 2009.
The charity, which helps families coping with loss, was founded by Diana’s close friend Julia Samuel—now a godmother to Prince George.
The father-of-three also addressed the merger of Child Bereavement UK with another similar charity Winston’s Wish, saying the move would ensure their joint impact could be expanded in the face of “increasing demand.”
“I have also seen the growing need for support of this kind, and it is because of this increasing demand that I am delighted that Child Bereavement UK and Winston’s Wish are joining forces to expand their impact.”
On a concluding note, the Prince of Wales added, “They have recognised that together they can do so much more, and I commend them both for taking this bold step to reach more people and help to reduce the long-term challenges that unresolved grief can cause.”
The newly merged organisation will retain the name Child Bereavement UK and the Prince will remain patron.