Meghan Markle Reflects On The 'Solace & Comfort' Pets Brought Their Owners During The Pandemic In Foreword For One Of Her Patronages
Meghan Markle may have stepped down from her royal duties, but she's still actively supporting the patronages that are close to her heart.
In a foreword for Mayhew Animal Rescue's annual review, the former actress touched on the trying times the world endured last year amid the pandemic.
The Duchess of Sussex, who has two dogs herself, started out her message by acknowledging that so many people struggled throughout the year as they lost loved ones, jobs and more — but she noted how being around animals helped to lift people's spirits.
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"I have heard from so many of you about the impact of having a pet with you at home during the isolation of lockdown; you have mentioned the therapeutic effect of having your animal by your side and the solace and comfort you found in their company," she wrote. "This effect is something Mayhew strives to deliver day in and day out to people throughout the UK and beyond."
The mom-of-two then thanked everyone who's supported the animal rescue over the past year.
"Your help has meant that, despite the hardship, Mayhew has been able to continue providing vital support to cats and dogs, and the communities around them," Meghan explained. "I have been proud to witness Mayhew adapting to the moment – through virtual rehoming, TheraPaws visits over Zoom and delivering care packages to animals and pet owners in need."
The Suits star also shared how the pandemic effected her personally.
"When I reflect on 2020, I always come back to the importance of community and connection. We may have been forced apart, but we found new ways to be close and to support each other through this shared crisis," she noted. "For many of us, this was made all the easier with our pets by our side."
"Mayhew – and thousands of small, community organizations like them – will continue to listen, adapt their services, and provide the resources that people and pets need to stay together and persevere through hardships," Meghan concluded. "As we collectively build to the future, my sincere hope is that we do so with ongoing support and appreciation for organizations like Mayhew, who continue their vital work in days of crisis and in days of calm. Their commitment to the cause of animal welfare is steadfast and their effect on our community wellbeing is self-evident."
