Duchess Meghan has given fans a beautiful and rare update following a difficult year – and she speaks of nothing but hope.
Appearing on a US television special, CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute, the Duchess shared a pre-recorded message from the bright garden of her home in Santa Barbara.
Stoic, articulate and brave as ever, the Duchess’ statement struck a clear cut chord – one that meant all the more given her devastating miscarriage announcement in November.
In the clip, Meghan says: “In a year that has been universally challenging for everyone, I’m inspired by the stories of compassion in our community.”
Speaking of the COVID-19 crisis, she explained the reality of the pandemic as its magnitude became clear back in March.
“Overnight, everything seemed to change. For many families, the impact of the pandemic has been catastrophic. Far too many were faced with a heartbreaking question: How am I going to put food on the table for my family?”
Meghan shared a stirring message of hope in the US television special CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute.
(CNN)She continued to explain that despite the difficulties, we witnessed the incredible power of the human spirit, with entire communities coming together.
“We saw communities standing up and taking action. When those who were most vulnerable couldn’t leave their homes, we as a community showed up to deliver the food they needed to their doorsteps.”
“In moments of crisis, the warmth of a meal can feel as comforting as a much needed hug – especially in the absence of human contact due to the social distancing we’re all experiencing.”
Meghan shined a light on the heroes who have stepped up, saying they showed us all that “even in the darkest times, when we come together we have the power to remind someone that there is hope and that we will be okay.”
“We have the power to remind someone that there is hope and that we will be okay,” Meghan said.
(CNN)Meghan’s words have undoubtedly resonated with many, particularly in her home-base of the US where the COVID-19 crisis continues to leave communities in lockdown and strict social distancing measures in place.
Ever the striking wordsmith, the Duchess was calm and confident throughout the clip, wearing a beautiful pale lilac blouse and with her hair in a loose up-do ponytail.
The Duchess looked chic in a light lilac top before a garden of lavender.
(CNN)The public video statement marks the first time we’ve seen Meghan since her stirring New York Times essay, which revealed she had a miscarriage back in July.
“Losing a child means carrying an almost unbearable grief, experienced by many but talked about by few,” she explained in the searing essay.
“In the pain of our loss, my husband and I discovered that in a room of 100 women, 10 to 20 of them will have suffered from miscarriage. Yet despite the staggering commonality of this pain, the conversation remains taboo, riddled with (unwarranted) shame, and perpetuating a cycle of solitary mourning.”
She continued to explain the importance of empathy, and understanding that many people are dealing with their own private battles behind the scenes.
And it was for this reason, that she reiterated the importance of asking if we are okay.
She ended the essay on a positive note, despite the pitfalls and difficulties the world continues to face.
“Are we OK? We will be,” she finished.
For 24 hour live online support and resources on coping with miscarriage, stillbirth and newborn death visit SANDS or call them on 1300 072 637.
Visit SIDS and Kids online who offer supportive forums which are moderated by trained counsellors.
