Just like her delightful children’s tale of “Little Red,” Duchess Fergie at the Ocean House could be the sequel. And why not? After all there is “Eloise at the Plaza.”
Globally known as the Duchess of York, this spunky and passionate “red-head” delighted fans at the Author Series on Wednesday. In addition to her charming tales from the heart, she spent about an hour signing books and posed for photo ops for all who queued up.
Tireless Crusader
The duchess is also a tireless crusader for children and families in need, through her charity, Sarah’s Trust. Additionally, she is a champion of animal welfare. Certainly a cause close to our hearts. Besides acknowledging her love for her daughters, and three grandchildren, she included her seven dogs, as well. The doggy brood includes Muik and Sandy, HM Queen Elizabeth’s beloved Corgis.
When asked about her “energy” and workload, the duchess jokingly stated she was “single” and not dating, so she had plenty of time. However, the truth is that she lives every day with purpose. Her life is also very simple. She does not focus on the negatives, given the fact that the UK press was merciless toward her in the early years. She also credited “HM” for giving her strength and to go out there and “live her life.” HM was her second mother, but more so, she was more a mother than her own mother.
Duchess Fergie at the Ocean House: “Derek” and “Eric”
The duchess went through two health scares in 2023. Breast cancer resulted in a mastectomy of her left breast and reconstructed surgery. She joked about naming her breasts “Derek” and “Eric.” But importantly, she implored all females in attendance to get a mammogram. Moreover, to check their moles. In addition to her breast cancer diagnosis, the duchess also had Melanoma.
A “Little Red” American Tale
The duchess credits America for “saving her life.” She recounted arriving on our shores without a job and prospect after UK “kicked her out.” She found work with Weight Watchers and wrote several best selling books, convincing Rupert Murdoch to bet on her. As they say, the rest is history!
Before “Little Red” became a successful children’s book series, she was a mascot for Chances for Children. The duchess recounted the harrowing day in 2001. Chances for Children charity office was located in the North Tower of the World Trade Centre. Talk about divine intervention! The duchess was running late, otherwise, it would have been a different ending. Instead, Little Red fell from the 101st floor.
The 9/11 experience and the near-miss had a profound impact on her life. The duchess does not waste time or life. She also credits her Scottish heritage and red hair for her tenacity. The original Little Red “rag doll” is at the Ground Zero museum.
Duchess Fergie at the Ocean House: Author Series
The Ocean House Author Series have become a fan favourite. Spear headed by the talented and gifted Deborah Goodrich Royce, these events are sell-outs. The literary authors who have graced the series are a “who’s who” in the publishing world, including Luanne Rice.
Attendees to Wednesday evening’s Author Series received a copy of “A Most Intriguing Lady,” published by HarperCollins.
