Prince William Moved to Tears as Widow Recounts Husband’s Suicide Story

The Prince of Wales was visibly emotional as he listened to the heartbreaking story of a widow whose husband took his own life just days after their baby’s death.

During a visit to Cardiff on World Mental Health Day, Prince William spoke with Rhian Mannings, who lost her husband, Paul, five days after their one-year-old son, George, died suddenly in 2012. The encounter, filmed inside Rhian’s home, left the prince struggling to hold back tears.

Rhian, who later founded the bereavement charity 2wish, told William that her husband’s death had changed her life forever. “I look back and I still don’t know how we survived it,” she said.

When the prince gently asked what she would say to her husband if given the chance, Rhian replied:

“Why didn’t you speak to me? I ask myself that every single day… He’s missed out on so much joy, and we would have been ok.”

Overcome with emotion, William paused briefly before apologising. “I’m sorry, it’s hard to ask you these questions,” he said, to which Rhian replied: “You’ve experienced loss yourself. Life can throw awful curveballs — but by talking about it and having hope, you can continue.”

A £1 Million Royal Commitment to Prevent Suicide

Prince William’s Royal Foundation has pledged £1 million to establish a National Suicide Prevention Network, bringing together 20 organisations to support those affected by suicide across the UK.

The network, chaired by Professor Ann John, a leading public health expert, will research the root causes of suicide and work to ensure people in crisis can easily access help.

“Suicide is a heartbreaking and preventable tragedy,” said Prince William. “We need a bold, unified national response.”

Among the partners in the network are James’ Place, which offers free crisis support for men in Liverpool, London, and Newcastle, and the Jac Lewis Foundation in Cardiff, which provides walk-in mental health support at Principality Stadium.

Elizabeth Thomas-Evans, CEO of the Jac Lewis Foundation, said: “From the valleys to the cities, suicide has scarred communities across Wales. This network could help change that.”

Rhian’s charity, 2wish, will also be part of the collaboration, providing emotional and practical support to families affected by the sudden death of a child or young person.

As the prince left her home, Rhian said she hoped that by sharing her story, others would find the courage to talk — before it’s too late.