The pain of losing a child or a loved one is one of the deepest griefs a person can experience, and for many families, that loss lingers long after the funeral is over.

The devastating reality of baby loss is one that can be uniquely harrowing—parents often leave the hospital empty-handed, their dreams of holding their newborn dashed forever.

Some are left with feelings of guilt, asking themselves whether they could have done more.

This kind of grief, though often quiet and unspoken, is shared by many, and this week, Princess Catherine, the Princess of Wales, took a moment to offer her support to those mourning the loss of a baby.

Many parents who have faced such a loss struggle with feelings of self-blame, questioning whether they could have done something differently to prevent the tragedy.

This kind of grief doesn’t always show on the outside. Often, it is carried silently, but it stays with parents for a lifetime.

In sharing her message during Baby Loss Awareness Week, Catherine also honored those who have walked this painful path, reaffirming her support for the emotional and social causes that bring comfort and awareness to those affected by the loss of a child.

Catherine’s message also highlights the broader support within the monarchy for families facing such tragedies. While royal duties and public appearances often focus on more formal and traditional causes, the royal family has shown that they are not indifferent to the human experiences of pain and suffering.

As the royal family continues to evolve, Catherine’s openness to discussing difficult subjects such as loss and grief will no doubt play an important role in shaping the future of the monarchy—one that is more attuned to the emotional needs of the public, while remaining rooted in compassion and love.