James Middleton, the brother of Kate Middleton, opens up about a harrowing chapter in his life as he prepares to release his memoir titled “Meet Ella: The Dog Who Saved My Life.” In candid excerpts shared by the Daily Mail, James, now 37, shares the depths of his struggles, revealing that he had battled thoughts of suicide and feelings of isolation that drove him to distance himself from his family.
Reflecting on that tumultuous period, he confesses that he often found himself caught in a spiral of despair. “I cannot sleep because my mind is in tumult,” he writes, emphasizing the exhausting toll that insomnia took on him. He described his state of mind as one of feeling utterly misunderstood and a “complete failure,” sentiments that resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced such despair.
James recalls a particularly dark night in November 2017, when he contemplated ending his life by jumping from a rooftop in London. In a poignant moment of clarity, he wondered if his death could be viewed as an accident, sparing his loved ones the agony of knowing he took his own life. However, it was the unwavering gaze of his dog Ella that ultimately pulled him back from the brink. He recounts how her soulful eyes looked up at him, reminding him of the responsibility he had toward her. “What would happen to Ella if I died?” he pondered, leading him to choose life over despair.
His memoir not only delves into his struggles with mental health but also shines a light on the support he found from Ella, who became a symbol of hope and resilience in his darkest moments. In a few days, on September 24, readers will get a deeper glimpse into James’ journey and his path toward healing.
For those who may find themselves in similar situations, James’ story serves as a reminder of the importance of reaching out for help and the impact that love, both human and animal, can have in moments of desperation. If you or someone you know is struggling, resources like the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can provide crucial support.
