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Queen Camilla has proven that family ties can withstand the test of time. The Queen's former daughter-in-law, Sara Parker Bowles, continues to share a special connection with the monarch even after her divorce from Tom, the Queen's son. The fashion editor recently shed light on their enduring relationship as Camilla celebrated her 76th birthday on July 17.
Sara, who was married to Tom from 2005 to 2018, revealed to The Times the challenges Camilla faced during their courtship, a period now referred to as "the hate years." Back then, Camilla struggled to be accepted by the public, yet she displayed remarkable courage and resilience. "She wasn't accepted at all. She didn't talk about it. She was just very brave and uncomplaining," Sara shared.
Tom had concerns that history would repeat itself upon Queen Elizabeth's passing, but to his surprise, the situation took a different turn. In September 2022, Queen Elizabeth passed away, and Camilla, along with her husband King Charles, ascended to the throne. Despite Sara and Tom's divorce, Sara and Camilla have maintained a close relationship throughout these changes.
Sara and her children, Lola and Freddy, were present at the coronation in May, with her 13-year-old son serving as one of Camilla's pages of honor. Reflecting on the momentous occasion, Sara recalled Camilla's nerves and desire to have her loved ones by her side. "Camilla was really, really nervous. She wanted the people that she loved around her. [The king] wasn't nervous at all. But Camilla didn't ask for any of this," Sara shared.
Sara emphasized the unique role Camilla plays within the royal family, being an outsider. She believes that the royal family needs individuals like Camilla to serve as the "human face" because of her distinct perspective. Sara affectionately mentioned that her children still refer to Camilla as "Gaga," highlighting the enduring bond they share.
Sara's heartwarming encounter with King Charles and Camilla
Sara's joy was evident as she recounted seeing her son on the balcony of Buckingham Palace alongside King Charles and Camilla, immediately after the coronation at Westminster Abbey. "I was quite obsessively watching him. But I knew by then he was going to be OK, that I could sort of let go," Sara admitted. She couldn't contain her delight as she described her son's spontaneous wave, an act that wasn't planned but showcased his genuine excitement.
Adding a touch of fairy tale magic to the mix, Sara shared an extraordinary experience. Earlier this year, she received an email from a representative of King Charles, inquiring about Lola's desired gift for her 16th birthday. Sara described the encounter as surreal, as if she had stumbled upon language from a storybook. The email simply stated, "The king would like to know what Lola wants for her birthday."
As Queen Camilla continues her reign, it is clear that her bond with Sara remains unbroken, proving that love and family transcend the boundaries of titles and marriages. Their connection serves as a testament to the enduring power of relationships, even in the midst of royal transitions and public scrutiny.