Prince Harry has revealed the impact his mother’s death affected him in a new book that’s aimed at helping young people and children cope with the loss of a loved one during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Duke of Sussex wrote the foreword for Hospital By The Hill, a book project from the Hampshire child bereavement support charity Simon Says.
The story follows a young person coping with the death of their mother who had been working in a local hospital on the frontline of the coronavirus crisis.
“If you are reading this book, it’s because you’ve lost your parent or a loved one, and while I wish I was able to hug you right now, I hope this story is able to provide you comfort in knowing that you’re not alone,” Harry’s message begins.
He then goes on to talk about the loss of his mother Princess Diana.
“When I was a young boy I lost my mum,” Harry continues.
“At the time I didn’t want to believe it or accept it, and it left a huge hole inside of me.
“I know how you feel, and I want to assure you that over time that hole will be filled with so much love and support.
“We all cope with loss in a different way, but when a parent goes to heaven, I was told their spirit, their love and the memories of them do not.
“They are always with you and you can hold onto them forever. I find this to be true.”
The introduction ends with Prince Harry acknowledging what people are feeling and saying that “the feeling will pass”.
“And I will make a promise to you – you will feel better and stronger once you are ready to talk about how it makes you feel.”
Princess Diana died in a car crash in Paris as her vehicle was chased by paparazzi on motorcycles.
This article originally appeared on Over60.