Meghan Markle loses a loved one

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex lost one of her beloved friends on January 15, 2022.

Oli Juste was known as one of the best dog trainers and animal behaviorists in Britain and was the one who introduced her to the work of the Mayhew,  an organization created for the welfare of animals.

Many weren’t aware of her death until Meghan Markle shared a heartfelt tribute on the website of the animal welfare charity Mayhew.

Meghan Markle wrote, “Every day there was another twist and turn, every week another update—which Oli and I would connect about: ‘What can we do? How can we do more? Look at the amazing work they continue to do. In his memory, we will be creating the Oli Juste wing at Mayhew, to shelter the animals who may have a harder time finding their forever homes.“Because, much like Oli, they will never be forgotten, and they will always be loved.”

“I was introduced to Mayhew by my dear friend, animal behaviorist, Oli Juste. We shared, amongst many things, a commitment to animal welfare, and a deep love of rescue dogs. It was Oli and his fiancé Rob who helped care for my rescue dog, Guy when I had just moved to the U.K. and he was recovering from a debilitating accident. They loved him as though he was their own.”

Meghan Markle became the charity’s first patron in 2019. It was one of the patronages she shared when she was still with the royal family. Even after leaving,  she still managed to engage with the welfare.

Howard Bridges, Mayhew’s chief executive, said: “Although we have mutually agreed to end the patronage, as a committed rescue pet parent, the Duchess will continue to support Mayhew and champion our ambitions. The Duchess has generously donated in memory of her much-loved friend Oli Juste, the well-known dog trainer and behaviorist, and we are naming a wing in his honor at our London rehoming center.

“It has been an incredible privilege for Mayhew to have worked closely with Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex, since 2019 when she became our Royal patron for a three-year term.”

Condolences never stopped pouring in, one Instagram user posted, “Oh Oli, I am sorry to hear this, and only just today. You were a most lovely gentle person and so much fun…,”

So shocked to be just reading this. I was listening to one of Oli’s podcasts today with Beverley Knight. I’m quite new to his podcasts but love them and have recommended them to so many people,” said another.