James Middleton shares star-gazing adventures with therapy dog Ella in Lake District

James Middleton, brother of the Princess of Wales, shared his experiences of mental health struggles during his time as a student at the University of Edinburgh. He adopted his cocker spaniel, Ella, in his first year, and she became a vital source of support throughout his 13 years with her. James often visited the Lake District during university breaks, where he and Ella would share moments under the stars, providing him solace during difficult times. In his book, 'Meet Ella: The Dog Who Saved My Life,' he recounts a particularly dark moment in 2017 when he contemplated suicide but was deterred by the thought of Ella's well-being. This bond highlighted the reciprocal nature of their relationship, as he realized that while he believed he was caring for her, she was, in fact, looking out for him. James's journey also involved family dynamics, as he noted the importance of having an impartial third party to help his parents understand that his mental health issues were not a result of their actions. His sisters played a crucial role in supporting him, fostering a more open family environment regarding mental health. Sadly, Ella passed away at the age of 15 in January, prompting James to reflect on the profound impact she had on his life, from his darkest days to his happiest moments. His experiences underscore the significance of companionship and support in overcoming mental health challenges.