In a touching gesture of comfort Prince Harry has penned a letter to the family of Carson Hartley who died earlier this month.
The inspiring five-year-old, who as born with a host of health issues after being born 13 weeks premature, met the Prince at the Wellchild awards where the royal presented him with the
Inspirational Child prize for his positive outlook.
Upon hearing of the Merseyside youngster’s passing Harry, who was so touched by the lad’s “tremendous spirit”, felt compelled to write to his grieving mum.
The 30-year-old Prince’s letter read: “I was so very sad to hear the tragic news. Carson made such an impression on me at the Wellchild awards last year with his warm smile and hugs.
“He showed so much happiness with such a positive outlook despite the challenges he faced.
“Carson was a wonderful young boy and I am delighted to have had the chance to meet him.
“I wanted to let you know how sorry I am to hear of your loss and pass to you my heartfelt condolences.”
Carson’s mum Kristy told the Liverpool ECHO that the letter was a lovely gesture from the Prince.
“We were having a really rubbish day and we hadn’t been home since Carson had died but we had to go and drop some things off.
“The letter was behind the door, I opened it not really paying attention but once i saw the royal stamp and the H on the envelope I knew it was important.
“My heart burst with pride, I cried, it was so bittersweet but just reflects exactly what we thought of Harry when we met him. He is so nice, genuine and really took an interest. I couldn’t believe he remembered Carson but like we always said, once met never forgotten.”
It was clear the Prince had taken to Carson at the awards last year with the photos from the event catching the young royal’s glint in the eye when he was introduced to the inspiring five-year-old.
Prince Harry hugs Carson Hartley at the Wellchild awards last year.
The inspiring five-year-old, who was born with a host of health issues after being born 13 weeks premature, defied all the odds by learning to walk when doctors told his parents he wouldn’t.
Prince Harry with carson and his parents Kristy and Damian Hartley.
Carson sharing a cheeky smile with the Prince.
Prince Harry meets 15-year-old Cecilia Adamou, an Inspirational young person award winner, during the WellChild awards at the London Hilton on September 22, 2014.
