Britain�s Prince Harry has written the forward for a new book aimed at the children of frontline workers who died in the COVID-19 pandemic, sharing the pain he suffered as a boy after the death of his mother, Princess Diana.

Harry wrote that losing his mother at age 12 left �a huge hole inside of me,� according to excerpts of the book printed in the Times of London. Diana died in a Paris car accident in August 1997.

�Hospital by the Hill,� by Chris Connaughton, is the story of a young person whose mother worked at a hospital and died during the pandemic. It is being given to children who have experienced similar losses.

�While I wish I was able to hug you right now, I hope this story is able to provide you comfort in knowing that you�re not alone,� Harry wrote in the forward. �When I was a young boy I lost my mum. At the time, I didn�t want to believe it or accept it, and it left a huge hole inside of me. I know how you feel, and I want to assure you that over time that hole will be filled with so much love and support.�

Harry has on several occasions reflected on the enduring pain he experienced from his mother�s sudden death. He has made mental health awareness a key part of his charitable work.

�We all cope with loss in a different way, but when a parent goes to heaven, I was told their spirit, their love and the memories of them do not,� Harry wrote. �They are always with you, and you can hold on to them forever. I find this to be true.�

(AP)