Prince Harry has written to the grieving mother of Carson Hartley, who died earlier this month.
The 30-year-old Prince wrote to expressing his condolences at the family’s loss. Harry gave Carson an ‘Inspirational Child’ award last year at a WellChild event, for his positive outlook and ‘tremendous spirit’. Harry and Carson made the headlines then, after the Prince gave him a hug and high-five.
Kirsty Hartley received the letter this week, which 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 was born with a host of health problems, including chronic heart and lung problems and bleeding of the brain; he spent the first three years of his life in hospital. Carson’s parents were told he would never walk, but he defied the odds and took his first steps aged two.
Kirsty said of the letter:
‘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.’
Carson’s funeral is to be held shortly.
Featured image: UK in Italy
1 comment
Thank you for sharing this endearing letter from Prince Harry to the parents of a little boy who tragically passed away with multiple health problems.