In a touching gesture following the birth of Prince Edward, Queen Elizabeth took a moment to express her gratitude to Sister Helen Roe, the skilled midwife who played a crucial role in bringing the young prince into the world.
The heartfelt letter, dated August 5, 1964, reflected the monarch’s joy and appreciation for the safe delivery of her youngest son on March 10 of that year.
Queen Elizabeth affectionately referred to Sister Roe as Roe, praising her for ensuring Edward’s safe arrival and describing the newborn as a bundle of joy, pure and delightful.
Tragically, just two years after Prince Edward’s birth, Sister Roe passed away, leaving behind a void in the special connection she had shared with the royal family.
The historic Buckingham Palace witnessed the arrival of not only Edward but also his brothers King Charles and Prince Andrew, while their sister Princess Anne was born at Clarence House.
In her handwritten note to Sister Roe, Queen Elizabeth expressed remorse for not being able to communicate with her before her departure, citing illness as a hindrance that led to a missed opportunity to reconnect.
The Queen acknowledged her mistake in misinterpreting Sister Roe’s letter and failing to respond promptly, attributing the lapse to a mix-up in dates.
It was only during a recent visit to Arundel that the Queen recalled the fond memories associated with Sister Roe, realizing the missed chance to express her gratitude properly.
She described Edward as a delightful child, full of innocence and charm, reaching developmental milestones like sitting up and weighing an impressive fifteen pounds twelve.
Providing an update on Prince Charles, who had fallen ill with pneumonia at fifteen while studying at Gordonstoun School in Scotland, Queen Elizabeth expressed relief at his improving health.
Today, on March 10, 2024, Prince Edward celebrates his sixtieth birthday, likely surrounded by his wife Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, and their two children.
As Edward marks this milestone, his daughter Lady Louise Windsor, aged twenty, may be absent as she focuses on her studies at St. Andrew’s University, pursuing a degree in English Literature.
Meanwhile, Edward and Sophie’s son, James, Earl of Wessex, recently turned sixteen and is diligently preparing for his upcoming GCSE examinations.
Last year, on his fifty-ninth birthday, Edward was honored with the title of Duke of Edinburgh, a significant legacy inherited from his late father, Prince Philip.
In line with Prince Philip’s vision, the newly appointed Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are committed to continuing his work of empowering young individuals to reach their full potential across diverse backgrounds.
As we reflect on these milestones and moments of the British Royal Family, let us celebrate the enduring legacy and contributions of each member.
Share your thoughts on this remarkable journey in the comments below and stay tuned for more updates on the royal family’s endeavors.