A close friend of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has offered a rare glimpse into their private lives, sharing a poignant story of support during a time of personal heartbreak for Meghan Markle.
A Devastating Loss for the Duchess
This year, the Duchess of Sussex suffered a painful personal tragedy. In January, Meghan announced on Instagram the death of her beloved rescue beagle, Guy (often called Gus). The dog had been a constant companion for a decade, seeing her through her rise to fame on Suits, her divorce from first husband Trevor Engelson, her engagement to Prince Harry, and the birth of their two children, Archie and Lilibet.
In an emotional post, Meghan described Guy as "the best guy any girl could have asked for." She wrote that she had cried "too many tears to count" following his passing, adding the heartfelt hashtag #adoptdontshop.
The Celebrity Vet's Crucial Intervention
The story of Guy's survival years earlier, however, highlights the Sussexes' dedication. Celebrity veterinary surgeon Noel Fitzpatrick, known for his pioneering work, has now revealed how he first met the couple.
Speaking to The Times, Fitzpatrick recalled receiving a call from Meghan in 2017. She was in Canada at the time and explained that Guy had escaped and been found with two severely injured carpus joints, akin to broken wrists. She asked if he would operate.
"I agreed and she brought him over," Fitzpatrick said. The Sussexes visited his practice in Surrey, where a notably informal and tender moment unfolded. "The Duke and Duchess sat on the floor. We had cake. Guy was fixed," he recounted.
A Lasting Bond of Gratitude
Fitzpatrick detailed the extensive care Guy required, with the dog undergoing several months of surgery and recovery. He praised the couple's commitment, noting that Harry and Meghan would drive late at night to visit Guy during his long convalescence.
The vet's skill gave Guy several more years of life, until his death earlier this year. Fitzpatrick received a "wonderful note of gratitude from Meghan, which was sweet," following the dog's passing.
The relationship forged during this crisis led to an invitation to the couple's 2018 wedding at Windsor Castle. Fitzpatrick told the Daily Mail he felt honoured but left early, experiencing a sense of "imposter syndrome."
This Christmas, while the Sussexes celebrate in their £30 million Montecito home with their children and Meghan's mother, Doria, one beloved family member will be absent. Yet, Fitzpatrick's account reveals a resilient, compassionate side to Harry and Meghan, far from the public spotlight, defined by their love for a rescued beagle and their profound gratitude to those who helped him.
