Meghan Markle makes surprise first public appearance since miscarriage disclosure
The mother of one applauded local communities for pulling together during this challenging period
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Your support makes all the difference.Meghan Markle has used her first public experience since revealing she had a miscarriage in November to pay tribute to the “quiet heroes” of the Covid-19 pandemic.
In a pre-recorded segment for CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute – an annual event by the US network that applauds the efforts of everyday people – Ms Markle commended those who have worked to support other people during this testing time.
“In a year that has been universally challenging for everyone, I'm inspired by the stories of compassion in our communities,” she began.
“Across the country, people have put their own needs aside to come together and support the collective wellbeing of those around them.
"Back in March, the Covid-19 crisis hit hard, and overnight everything seemed to change.”
She continued: “For many families, the impact of the pandemic has been catastrophic, and far too many were faced with the heart breaking question: ‘How am I going to put food on the table for my family?’
“But in the face of this devastating reality, we also saw the power of the human spirit and the remarkable ways that communities respond in challenging times."
Wearing a pale mauve silk, pussy-bow blouse, the former royal praised the collective power of communities at this challenging time.
“We saw the good in people, in our neighbours and in entire communities coming together to say they would not stand by while our neighbours went hungry," she said.
"We saw communities standing up and taking action. When kids' lunch programs came to a halt, we saw our neighbours make sure that those children received the nutrition they need.
“And when those who are immunocompromised or most vulnerable couldn't leave their homes, we, as a community, showed up to deliver the food they needed to their doorsteps,” she added.
“We know the value of food; as nourishment, as a life source, and in the moments of crisis, the warmth of a meal can feel as comforting as a much-needed hug — especially in the absence of human contact due to the social distancing we're all experiencing.”
The mother of one emphasised the power of hope during dark times.
"These moments reminded so many that they're cared for. Tonight, we are celebrating these quiet heroes, some of whom I know and others that we applaud from afar.
“These individuals stood up and made sure the most basic needs of our communities were met. They made sure those around them did not have to suffer in isolation. They nourished their neighbours in more ways than one.
“And they showed us, all of us, that even in the darkest times, when we come together, we have the power to remind someone else that there is hope, and that we will be okay,” she concluded.
Writing in the New York Times last month, Ms Markle admitted she had experienced a miscarriage over the summer.
Campaigning groups commended her honesty in normalising an experience that affects one in four UK pregnancies.
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