The Duchess of York reflects on the tragic passing of a close family friend.
Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, has opened up about the devastating loss of a "special" person in her life, James Wentworth-Stanley, the son of her close friend Clare Milford Haven.
Speaking with The Times while promoting a mental health initiative, Sarah revealed her grief over James’s untimely passing and his impact on her family. "He was so special to me and my girls, and he and I spent some very happy times together, in Argentina in particular, where we shared a love of polo," she shared.
James, who tragically took his own life just ten days after a minor operation, had sought help for his anxiety and suicidal thoughts but was unable to access the urgent support he needed. "He had such a twinkle and an incredible sense of humour," Sarah recalled, expressing the depth of the loss.
The Duchess praised her friend Clare for her resilience in the face of tragedy. Clare established a mental health charity in her son’s memory to provide critical support and prevent other families from experiencing similar heartbreak.
Sarah, a long-time advocate for mental health awareness, continues to use her platform to promote conversations about mental well-being and honour the legacy of those lost too soon.