Diana remembered

Originally posted August 31, 2010

Today marks the 13^th anniversary of the death of Diana, Princess of Wales. Born Lady Diana Spencer, she would have turned 49 years of age on July 1^st, 2010, had she survived the terrible collision that claimed her life.

As with the death of President John F. Kennedy, many remember exactly where they were, what they were doing and how they reacted when news of her death was broadcast. I remember I was stunned and disbelieving, thinking a correction would air at any moment saying that she had been hurt but the rumour mill that always hunted her had exaggerated her death. 

Then, I remember crying  for her little boys, to whom she was so devoted. Finally, I cried in anger at the waste of a young woman struggling to find a place in the world in which she could be at peace and full of purpose.

I’ve never been a fanatic “Dianaphile,” but I admired her efforts at her personal growth and feel today that she would have become a wonderful example of royalty at its best, as a quiet yet effective advocate for social change. 

Many products and programs have been produced to commemorate Diana’s memory. It should come as no surprise that my favourites are the Princess of Wales Memorial tartans designed by Lochcarron of Scotland.

The dianatartan.co.uk website states: “It was created in sympathetic response to and respect for her memory. The check itself is based on a variation of the Royal Stewart plaid in colours inspired by and reflecting the character, image and life of the Princess.”

The Diana Princess of Wales Memorial tartan is a restricted tartan designed by Alistair Buchan. Fabric and garment made from fabric woven in this tartan design can be obtained from Tartan House Canada.