Meghan Markle could be seen shedding a tear at an emotional event held by her close friend Kelly McKee Zajfen, in honour of her son who died under tragic circumstances
Accompanied by husband Prince Harry, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, made an emotional appearance at a charity event this weekend, held in remembrance of the late son of a close friend.
The George Zajfen Tennis Tournament was held Saturday, October 18, at the Los Angeles Tennis Club, “in honour of George Zajfen and his love of tennis”.
The son of former model Kelly McKee Zajfen and her husband, entertainment lawyer Julian Zajfen, young George, passed away in 2022 following the sudden onset of a viral illness. Kelly, who has been friends with Meghan since long before she rose to global fame, founded the Alliance of Moms, a community which supports “expectant and parenting youth in LA’s foster care system”.
Proceeds raised through this poignant event went towards supporting young mothers and improving their prospects in life. As Kelly, who is also mum to daughter Lily, gave a speech during the tournament, supportive friend Meghan could be seen wiping away a tear, while Harry listened on, right behind her.
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Kelly praised Meghan, 44, in a heartfelt Instagram post reflecting on what had been a day of “tears, hugs, and so much joy”, in memory of her “beautiful boy”. She wrote: “I’m in awe of what we did together! Truly amazed. We raised a record-breaking $200,000 for our youth right here in Los Angeles and across California. Your generosity and support continue to change lives and keep George’s light shining so brightly. YOU did that.”
Referring directly to Harry and Meghan, Kelly continued: “I wanted to give a huge thank you to our presenting sponsors, Ziffren Brittenham and The Archewell Foundation. Meg & H, you continue to amaze me with your commitment to community and your fierce loyalty and love in friendship. We are so grateful you chose to support The Alliance again this year.
“I’m always in awe of your ability to show up for others, for this cause, and for our family. Thank you for holding Georgie in your hearts and helping us carry his light forward. We love you.”
It’s understood that Kelly and Meghan first met through Meghan’s ex-husband, Trevor Engelson, who is friends with Julian. They’ve remained close in the years since, with Meghan showing up for her glamorous pal during the most heartbreaking of times.
In the aftermath of George’s tragic death, Meghan and Harry donated £3,722 [$5,000] to a GoFundMe page set up in his honour, and it’s clear the Duchess has continued to be a great source of emotional support for Kelly.
During an Instagram Q&A session, Kelly opened up about her friendship with one of the most famous women on the planet, revealing, “I’ve actually known her for almost 20 years? She even came to my wedding (15 years ago!) and she’s been the most amazing, nurturing, fun, loving human. She’s been by my side, especially since Georgie died, and I cherish our friendship very much.” She added: “I’m endlessly inspired by her.”
In a recent piece penned for People, Kelly spoke movingly about the loss of her son, sharing, “I think grief has stolen the idea of time. So I live in the now and in the moments in between and embrace my community more than I had ever before. Oh boy, did my community show up.
“I have been left utterly in awe and overcome by the number of people who have been here and continue to support our family. I go between tears of sorrow and tears of gratitude for the kindness that has been shown. I will not forget when I opened my eyes the day after my son died, in complete despair, who was standing at our bedside.”
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