Heartfelt letter to charity founder Rhian Mannings touches the nation
Prince William’s emotional exchange with charity founder Rhian Mannings has deeply moved people across the UK. The Prince of Wales became visibly tearful while listening to Rhian share her devastating story of loss — and later sent her a personal letter that she described as one she will “treasure forever.”
Rhian founded the charity 2wish after losing both her infant son, George, and her husband, Paul, to suicide within just days of each other in 2012. Her work now supports families coping with sudden bereavement.
Marking World Mental Health Day, Rhian revealed on Instagram that she had received a handwritten note from the Prince, thanking her for her openness and courage. “I came home from work today to find the most beautiful letter waiting for me — a letter of thanks from Prince William,” she wrote. “He thanked me for welcoming him into our home and for speaking so openly about Paul and George. He even mentioned Mum and the children, which really touched my heart.”
During their meeting, Prince William reportedly struggled to hold back tears as Rhian spoke about her loss. “It’s just hard to ask you questions…” he said, acknowledging the emotional weight of her story.
As part of a wider effort to tackle the UK’s growing suicide crisis, the Royal Foundation, led by William and Catherine, has announced a £1 million donation to 2wish and other organisations. The funding will help launch the National Suicide Prevention Network, designed to improve access to mental health support and encourage collaboration among agencies.
Rhian’s children, Holly and Isaac, also met the Prince. They described him as “just so normal,” saying he made them feel at ease and spoke to them as though they already knew him.
The moving encounter not only highlights the depth of compassion Prince William brings to his mental health work but also sheds light on the importance of empathy and openness in confronting the realities of grief and suicide.
