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Live by Design is a weekly News24 column by Dr Helena Dolny and Mapi Mhlangu on mortality and the conversations around it.
As someone who has always been captivated by the intricacies of the royal family, I have witnessed how the tabloid media often spins tales around them — particularly the speculation and sometimes malicious reporting surrounding the late Princess Diana.
Seeing the relentless pursuit to monetise the vulnerabilities, pain and challenges of primary members of the royal family has been disheartening to see for this dedicated royal follower.
Indeed, the strength and existence of the royal family are intricately linked to the media attention and coverage they receive. As public figures whose expenses are partially covered by taxpayers, there is a natural curiosity and interest in their lives. However, there comes the point when this interest can become disruptive and even dangerous for the people who are idolised by the nation.
The constant scrutiny and invasion of privacy can have detrimental effects on their mental health and well-being, blurring the line between public duty and personal life. Society must acknowledge the boundaries and respect people's private spheres, including those in the royal family, to ensure their safety and emotional stability.
In today's digital age, social media, especially platform X, has become a treacherous landscape for public figures like Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, who face a barrage of conspiracy theories and unwarranted scrutiny.
I was taken aback when I stumbled upon Kate's heartfelt revelation about her cancer battle. Her words provided a glimpse into the rollercoaster of emotions she endured, from the nerve-wracking wait for test results to the life-altering moment of receiving a diagnosis, as well as the difficult choices surrounding how and when to disclose this information to those closest to her.
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One particular phrase from Kate's disclosure struck a chord within me: "The uncertainty is terrifying, but the courage to confront it head-on is liberating."
Receiving news of a life-threatening from a loved one is a profoundly emotional and significant moment that requires a delicate touch and a compassionate heart. I was transported back to the time when my own mother bravely disclosed her battle with cancer to me when I was just 26 years old.
It was a time filled with conflicting emotions as she revealed this challenging news amid the chaos of my responsibilities as an executive producer for SAFM during the provincial elections. She chose to wait until the hustle and bustle of the elections had subsided before beckoning me home for a crucial meeting.
I vividly remember the mix of vulnerability and resilience in her eyes, igniting a profound contemplation on how young children like Princess Kate's could possibly comprehend the weight of it all.
Her decision to postpone the conversation reflected her profound care for both the gravity of my work and the need to grapple with her own array of emotions, thoughts, and needs. In that poignant meeting, we found a safe haven to openly share our fears, concerns, and uncertainties, enveloped in a cocoon of mutual understanding and unwavering support.
This shared moment of vulnerability and strength etched a lasting imprint on my soul, showcasing the beauty of empathy and resilience in the face of adversity.
Navigating a life-threatening illness amid the relentless scrutiny of the media must be an unimaginable ordeal for a mother of three. The juxtaposition of personal struggles against the spotlight of public perception underscores the resilience required to endure such challenges with grace and dignity.
As we embrace empathy and understanding in society, it's essential to remember that behind every headline lies a human story of strength and hope.
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