On Tuesday, Oct. 15, Kate Middleton made a rare personal appearance on Instagram, sharing a heartfelt message in observance of Baby Loss Awareness Week.
The Princess of Wales emphasized the importance of this week in her caption, stating, “Baby Loss Awareness Week is such an important moment to support those who have experienced the devastation of baby loss.”
Kate’s message underscores the importance of community support in times of grief during Baby Loss Awareness Week
Alongside her message, she posted a photograph of a candle from the British brand Plum & Ashby, featuring a white label with the words “wave of light.” The annual event encourages people to light candles on Oct. 15 in remembrance of families affected by baby loss, marking the conclusion of Baby Loss Awareness Week.
The princess’s candle, a symbol of this observance, was gifted to her in 2020 during a visit to Tommy’s, a child bereavement charity. All proceeds from the £32 candles go toward research initiatives aimed at saving babies’ lives, according to Plum & Ashby.
Kate ended her message with a personal note, writing, “Sending love, strength and hope to anyone affected. #WaveofLight,” and signed off with the initial “C.” Additional Instagram posts from Tommy’s and Child Bereavement UK were also reshared by the princess as part of the Wave of Light campaign. One of these posts showcased the 2024 edition of the Plum & Ashby candle.
During her 2020 visit to Tommy’s, the Princess of Wales explored the charity’s efforts to reduce stillbirth and miscarriage rates and connected with families impacted by child loss. The royal couple has previously recognized Baby Loss Awareness Week on social media.
In 2022, they posted, “Taking a moment this #BabyLossAwarenessWeek to think about all those who’ve been affected by pregnancy and baby loss. In this thread some organisations and resources are providing support and advice to families and loved ones who need it most.”
