After his recent visit to the UK, Prince Harry has shared a heartfelt reflection about his two young children, Archie and Lilibet.
The Duke of Sussex, 41, has now returned to the US following a short trip to Europe. In under a week, he managed to attend several charity events, make a £1.1 million personal donation to BBC Children in Need, visit St George’s Chapel to lay a wreath in memory of his late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, reunite briefly with his father, King Charles, and even travel to Ukraine.
Attending the WellChild Awards
The central purpose of Harry’s visit was to attend the WellChild Awards in London on September 8. He has served as patron of the charity for 17 years, supporting children with serious health conditions and the families who care for them.
The awards highlight the courage of young people living with complex medical needs, as well as the dedication of those who support them. Before the ceremony began, Harry met privately with the winners and their families.
It was during this time that Harry made a deeply personal confession, linking his experience as a father to the work of the charity.
A Father’s Perspective
His children, Prince Archie, six, and Princess Lilibet, four, had remained in California with their mother, Meghan Markle, while Harry traveled alone.
Speaking to Hello! at the event, Harry admitted that becoming a parent has profoundly changed his perspective.
“Once you become a parent yourself, everything changes,” he shared.
“It’s emotional enough, not being a parent and seeing what these families go through. But then when you have your own kids, when you’re expecting your own kids, that’s when it really hits you.”
Harry reflected on his past appearances at the awards, recalling the 2018 ceremony he attended with Meghan, who was then pregnant with Archie. At the time, he was visibly moved. “I remember one of these years, I choked up on stage, and that was exactly it: I am so grateful to have healthy kids,” he added.
Looking Ahead
Following his UK engagements, Harry made a trip to Ukraine, where he hinted that Archie and Lilibet may one day return to Britain with him.
In a candid conversation with The Guardian, he confirmed: “Yes, I would like them to see the place where I grew up, and this week has definitely brought that closer.”