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BMJ No 7108 Volume 315 Editorial Saturday 6 September 1997 Death of Diana, Princess of Wales A special life forged from adversity The BMJ joins the British nation and people from all around the world in mourning the death of Diana, Princess of Wales. Not often does it seem right to acknowledge grief over the death of such a public figure from beyond the profession, but this time it does. The Prince of Wales was president of the BMA in its 150th anniversary year (1982), and we remember vividly the day when the princess visited BMA House. Even then she struck a different note by asking to meet the families of those who worked here. We brought in our children, and the day was much more memorable than just another royal visit. The princess associated herself with causes that matter to those concerned about health. She campaigned on AIDS, leprosy, and drug addiction; worked with sick children (particularly as president of the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children in London); spoke of her own experiences of bulimia; and - most recently - raised the issue of landmines high up the international agenda. She seemed to speak so well to and for the vulnerable because of the difficulties in her own life. Her life was full of glamour and opportunity, but her gift was to create a very special life - and an inspiration to many - from adversity. Richard Smith Editor BMJ Home | Current issue | Past issues | Classified ads | Career Focus | Feedback Collections | About this site | About the BMJ | BMA | Medline