A Sky Full of Stars…
Sophie McGowan, business owner and avid supporter of Brave Mind Charity, shares Princess Kate’s impactful endorsement for World Mental Health Day. The Princess adorned Issy Star earrings twice in one week, underscoring a personal connection to Issy’s legacy. Witnessing Issy’s story resonate globally fills us with immense pride and gratitude for the overwhelming love and support received.
Amidst the hustle of sending out beautiful Issy Stars, I sat down with SASS Boss Sophie, discussing ‘The Kate Effect.'”
Tell Us About Issy:
Radiating warmth like a sunbeam, Issy embraced everyone with hugs and kisses. Family, particularly her brothers, held the utmost importance. Her vibrant, sporty spirit illuminated her love for life. In her 17 years, Issy achieved the European Gold Medal in Touch Rugby, alongside coaching at Maidenhead Rugby Club, a passion shared with her mother, Sarah. Always driven to help others, Issy’s altruistic nature and selflessness defined her as a true angel, born to make a positive impact on the world.
What Would Issy Say About Princess Kate Wearing The Issy Star?
Loving every moment, I can imagine Issy’s excitement, exclaiming, ‘No way! She’s wearing them!’ Issy’s daily involvement and infectious enthusiasm would have been invaluable. Her joy would mirror my own. You start a business with hopes of success and impact, but having a real Princess wear my earrings and share Issy’s story exceeded all expectations. With a supportive friend like Rivienne, the trip became a truly enjoyable experience from beginning to end!
Why Did You Choose Brave Mind?
Emphasising the importance of sport for positive mental health, Brave Mind was our choice. It promotes teamwork, growth, and community support from a young age. Our focus is on supporting the educational initiatives of Brave Mind, directing funds to mental health education in rugby clubs, football clubs, schools, and universities. Simon Trower, the founder of Brave Mind, will join us on an upcoming Instagram live to discuss the impactful work being done. Proceeds from the Issy Star sales have already contributed to funding these crucial projects.
Was The Design Of The Issy Star Special To You?
The choice of a star reflects how I see Issy – a superstar in everything, still shining from the other side. The moment I saw the earrings, it clicked – the Issy Star. She guides me with strength since her passing, an incredible source of support. Succeeding at Earsass is my tribute to her, acknowledging the immense strength she has given me.
Has Issy’s Family Felt Supported by Kate’s Involvement?
Meeting Sarah, Issy’s mum, deeply moved Princess Kate during her visit to Maidenhead Rugby Club in June. Sarah shared Issy’s story, gifted Kate the Issy Star earrings, and explained our commitment to donate £5 from each sale to Brave Mind Mental Health and Suicide Charity.
Kate, visibly touched, wrote a heartfelt letter to Sarah, promising to wear the earrings. Choosing World Mental Health Day for this gesture resonated poignantly. While we wish Issy was with us, her legacy lives on through the Issy Star. The donation to Brave Mind, supported by over 600 orders, ensures their vital work continues. A big thank you to our patient customers for their support!
What Was Your Initial Reaction To Kate Wearing The Earrings:
Jaz and I prepared for the Christmas EARSASS photoshoot, a big event with friends as models. Sian, Jaz’s cousin, our wonderful photographer, joined us. On World Mental Health Day, amidst the planning, my phone started buzzing with Issy Star orders. I shared with Jaz the possibility of Kate wearing the earrings, and moments later, an Instagram tag confirmed it. Excitement filled the workshop as we hugged and cried, overwhelmed by Kate’s choice to support mental health struggles. It was a day marked by both the Kate effect and the Issy effect. Calling my family and Issy’s loved ones, tears of joy were shared over the phone.
If Would You Say To Princess Kate Now?
I hope Princess Kate knows how wonderful she is, reminiscent of Issy. Her love, compassion, and genuine interest mirror Issy’s spirit. Managing public duties, family, and private life, she’s a true blessing to EARSASS. Seeing her in more designs would be delightful, but above all, a heartfelt thank you for her global efforts in mental health awareness and suicide prevention. Kate’s emphasis on actionable solutions aligns with our mission at EARSASS. We deeply appreciate her dedication to improving outcomes for young people’s mental health worldwide.
Click here to to shop the Issy Star as worn by the Princess of Wales.
