Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have been thanked by a grieving father for helping him survive following the death of his daughter.
In 2020, Toney and Brandy Roberts’ daughter, Englyn Maydisyn Roberts, took her own life.
The bereaved parents, who now serve as community managers for The Parents’ Network, spoke candidly about their connection with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle during a mental health festival in New York City.
The Parents’ Network, established by the Sussexes’ Archewell Foundation, provides support for families affected by online harm.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have been credited with helping grieving parents survive following the death of their daughter.
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For the Roberts family, this relationship began approximately three years ago when the royal couple learned about their tragedy and actively worked to bring them into a supportive community of similarly affected families.
Toney Roberts revealed that the couple’s involvement has transformed his approach to grief and communication.
Tony told Hello: “It helps me to survive personally, because I’m normally quiet to myself.”
He explained that the Sussexes’ support enabled him to share his feelings with other bereaved parents.
Tony said: “Their support has helped me become more open to talking about how I feel to other men and women, other families that again, I normally would never have met, shouldn’t have met, but I don’t mind sharing my love and my care with them and receive the same in return.”
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex founded The Parents’ Network in 2023.
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The connection was facilitated through the Social Media Victims Law Centre, which introduced the Roberts family to Prince Harry and Meghan.
Tony lavished praise on the couple, saying: “It’s because of Harry and Megan that this is all possible.
Brandy Roberts shared her appreciation for the personal connection they’ve developed with the royal couple.
Brandy said: “We just love them and every time we’re in their presence, they come and give us this nice hug, and just lets us know that we’re heard,” she said. “They’re our voice.”
Toney likened conversations with the Sussexes to speaking with siblings, describing them as his “brother” and “sister.”
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Toney likened conversations with the Sussexes to speaking with siblings, describing them as his “brother” and “sister.”
He said: “They use their status for good, and that’s what people around the world need to realise.
“They truly have brought families together that should have never met because of the situation that we’re all in. But they’re awesome. Totally awesome.”
Toney praised their genuine compassion, adding: “I’m glad they met because they have something that you can’t teach, and that’s give a d**n. They really care.”
Anyone who is in emotional distress, struggling to cope or at risk of suicide can call the Samaritans anonymously for free from a UK phone on 116 123 or go to samaritans.org.