Duchess Sophie holds back tears as she steps up in important role

The Duchess of Edinburgh has been dutifully carrying out her scheduled tasks in Canada as the royal family was hit with some tragic news last week.

Duchess Sophie had already arrived in Alberta when the death news of the Duchess of Kent was announced by the Buckingham Palace. Despite the setback, Sophie stepped into her new role as the patron of the Spruce Meadows and its charities.

On Sunday, Sophie met with veterans, their families, and support staff at the Veterans Association Food Bank in Calgary, one of the charities supported by the Leg Up Foundation.

During her visit, Sophie appeared to be holding back tears while listening to stories of the veterans. She spoke to Engineers veteran Rod Elder, 78, as well as Royal Canadian Navy veteran Avi, 40. In one instance, Sophie made a heartfelt gesture for a tearful Avi by embracing him.

The director of the food bank, Marie Blackburn, told Calgary Herald that the veterans had been “so excited” since the past month to meet the Duchess.

About the emotional meeting she shared that some veterans have severe war injuries, mostly mental, and Sophie offered very kind words that moved Avi to tears.

Sophie had said, “Tomorrow’s another day, just get up and try to do something to make yourself feel happy.”

Apart from the veterans visit, Prince Edward’s wife also went to the Pacific Assistance Dogs Society, where staff spent half an hour showing her what the organisation does.

The Palace had confirmed the Duchess of Edinburgh as the royal patron of the top show jumping facility back in April.