Princess Anne, the resilient Princess Royal, was unable to attend a significant event in Canada following a recent hospitalization resulting from a horse-related injury.
The 73-year-old princess, renowned for her unwavering dedication, broke her silence through a heartfelt statement expressing regret over missing the ceremony.
The incident took place more than a week ago at her Gatcombe Park estate in Gloucestershire, where she sustained a concussion and head injuries in an unfortunate encounter with a horse while out walking.
After the incident, she spent five nights at Southmead Hospital in Bristol before being discharged to continue her recovery at home.
Initially scheduled for Sunday, Anne’s planned overseas tour to Canada had to be postponed as her medical team advised her to refrain from public engagements until she is fully fit to resume her official duties.
Her absence was keenly felt during the memorial ceremony in St. John’s, Newfoundland, held on July 1, Canada Day.
The ceremony was a solemn occasion marking the repatriation of the remains of an unknown soldier from the Newfoundland First World War regiment, who was brought back from the battlefields of northern France.
It honored the sacrifices of soldiers who fought during the harrowing Battle of the Somme in 1916, one of the most significant battles of the First World War.
This year also marks the 100th anniversary of the Newfoundland National War Memorial, where the soldier’s remains were laid to rest.
As Colonel-in-Chief of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment and President of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, Princess Anne conveyed her heartfelt regrets through a message delivered by Canada’s Governor General, Mary Simon.
In her message, Anne expressed genuine sorrow and deep respect for the occasion and the individuals it commemorated.
She reminisced about past engagements with the people of Newfoundland, highlighting her admiration for their bravery and service.
Despite her absence, Anne’s words provided a sense of comfort and continuity during the ceremony.
Although Princess Anne’s head injuries are not life-threatening, they necessitate careful management and rehabilitation.
Her medical team indicated that the injuries were consistent with an impact from a horse’s head or legs, but the exact details of the incident remain unclear due to the concussion.
Following emergency treatment on-site, she was transported by road for further care, with her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Lawrence, providing updates on her slow but steady recovery.
Known for their strong bond, the couple is supporting each other through this challenging period.
Despite facing physical setbacks, Princess Anne’s indomitable spirit shines through.
Her commitment to her duties and causes she supports remains unwavering, evident in her message to the Canadian ceremony attendees.
As she continues to recuperate at Gatcomb Park, the outpouring of public support and her sense of duty serve as sources of strength and comfort.
We extend our well wishes to Princess Anne for a speedy and full recovery, eagerly anticipating her return to the public eye to resume her esteemed roles.
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