Folk Saint Series: Princess Diana

I’m continuing my series on folk saints today by recognizing Diana, Princess of Wales.🕯️ 
For more information on the background and history of folk saints, please see my October 7th post on Roberto Clemente (the inspiration for this series) or the highlight on my main page.

You’re likely already at least somewhat familiar with Princess Diana—there are a seemingly infinite number of publications on her life story. Beloved worldwide as a humanitarian and philanthropist, Diana gained further adoration for her vulnerability (especially when discussing her struggles with mental health), devotion as a mother to her two sons, and for emanating warmth among a notoriously cold family.

Focusing on her activism, Diana was a patron of numerous charitable causes supporting individuals living with leprosy, homelessness, mental illness, addiction, and HIV/AIDS. In 1989, at a time when the public incorrectly believed HIV could be spread by casual contact, Diana hugged a pediatric patient while visiting the AIDS unit at Harlem Hospital Center in New York City, a gesture that paved the way for further work at destigmatizing HIV and AIDS.

She also went on to become actively involved with the anti-landmine campaign which sought to remove debris left behind by war. Pictures of Diana touring a minefield in Angola wearing a ballistic helmet and flak jacket were published worldwide.

Diana died at age 36 in the Pont de l'Alma tunnel in Paris along with companion Dodi Fayed when their driver crashed their car while attempting to flee paparazzi. Her death sparked a global outpouring of grief.

In addition to the above causes, Diana is also invoked for the personal struggles she experienced so publicly, including eating disorders and depression, as well as comfort for victims of infidelity and those in unhappy marriages.

Her favorite flowers are forget-me-nots and she also reportedly loves pink and pearls, all of which are good options for offerings (in addition to acts of charity and any personal items you choose).

To learn more about me and my Appalachian folk practice, including info on folk witchcraft, mountain magic, and hearthcraft, please visit gritchenwitch.com or join my Patreon at patreon.com/gritchenwitch.

Folk Saint Series: Princess Diana

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