Prince William Supports Bereaved Families in Special Book: 'My Thoughts Are with You'

Prince William is adding his voice to support the bereaved.

The Prince of Wales has sent a poignant message to those dealing with loss and says help can come through sharing the experiences.

William's words come in a foreword to a booklet prepared by London's Air Ambulance Charity, and features the stories of 12 families who have lost loved ones.

William, 41, whose mother Princess Diana died in 1997 when he was just 15, writes: “No two experiences of bereavement are ever the same. The sudden and often unexpected loss of a loved one can be profoundly difficult to process, even with the passing of time."

“However, some solace can be found through the sharing of experience. The families who have contributed to this booklet have shared the most precious of memories, thoughts, and feelings. I would like to thank them for opening up and allowing us into their very personal journey."

“I hope that this booklet will provide some comfort and support, and that you might find it useful. For those reading this who are bereaved, and whose world is now very different, my thoughts are with you.”

The prince was an air ambulance pilot and is also a supporter of Child Bereavement UK.

The charity says it hopes the new booklet will be "a guide and a solace to those who may find themselves having to navigate the pain of sudden and unexpected loss" and adds the stories provide "a small glimpse to those who are not bereaved but may be having to care for or support someone who is suddenly and unexpectedly bereaved."

It will be offered for free to anyone who might benefit from it, at a time that is right for them either as an individual, a family, a friend or a professional.

Dr Anna Dobbie, Lead Clinician for London’s Air Ambulance, said in a statement: "’The nature of the work we do means that although we often see many patients who recover from the most devastating injuries, it sadly also involves caring for patients who despite our very best efforts die."

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

"It’s a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of compassionate and empathetic care at the end of life. This booklet allows us to extend the care we offer these patients beyond the ‘roadside’ to try and support their families who have to navigate through the unimaginable pain of losing a loved one suddenly and unexpectedly."

William has just returned from a successful few days in New York, where he promoted his Earthshot Prize, and showcased new ideas that can help solve some of the planet's problems.