Prince William has shared an emotional moment with a 14-year-old who recently lost his mum by remembering the death of his own mother, Princess Diana.
While visiting Keech Hospice in Luton with the Duchess of Cambridge, the future King offered some advice to Ben Hines, whose mother Alexandra passed away in June 2015.
“I know how you feel,” William told the teenager. “I miss my mother every day. It’s okay to feel sad.”
The 34-year-old Prince was just 15 when his mother died in a car crash in 1997 and he advised Ben, who is the youngest of three brothers that met the royal pair, to make sure he connects with his family over his feelings.
“As for boys, you have to talk a lot better, we’re not good sharers. It’s a classic example of lots of talking needed,” he said. “Time makes it easier. I know how you feel, I still miss my mother every day and it’s 20 years after she died. The important thing is to talk about it as a family, it’s okay to feel sad, it’s okay for you to miss her.”
Before leaving the Prince rested his hand on Ben’s shoulder and told his family, “Promise me you will talk to each other.” Thomas Hines, the 20-year-old brother to Ben, replied to William: “I promise, sir.”
After the meeting Ben’s father, Gary Hines, 48, said, “I was getting all choked up towards the end when Ben was talking about his mum.”
Mr Hines, who works as a gardener, said he appreciated the Prince’s tenderness.
“He gave Ben his absolute attention,” said Gary. “You could see that it struck a chord with him.”
Prince Harry admits he regrets not talking about Diana
Princess Diana with Harry and William
The couple arrive at the hospice
William and Kate used the day to shed some light on the hospice, that helps adults and children with life-limiting conditions live pain and symptom free, spend time with their family and friends, and stay out of hospital.
The royal couple also met Jamie and Ethan Coniam, ten and six, who lost their disabled brother at 10. Ethan asked Kate if he could have a hug and the Duchess gleefully obliged and said: “Yes of course, I love cuddles.”
Kate, who looked stunning in a blue and white L.K. Bennett dress and nude pumps, was also treated to a baking demonstration along with her husband.
The Duchess revealed a rare insight that she bakes at home with Prince George but things don’t always go to plan.
“When I try to do this with George at home, chocolate and the golden syrup goes everywhere,” she said. “He makes so much mess. It’s chaos.”
The engagement reflected the royal couple’s continued commitment toward mental health, as well as hospice care.
