Several charitable organizations have severed ties with Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, after an email surfaced in which she referred to Jeffrey Epstein as a “supreme friend.” The British Heart Foundation (BHS), The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation, Teenage Cancer Trust, Prevent Breast Cancer, Julia’s House, Children’s Literacy Charity, and National Foundation for Retired Service Animals are among the seven charities that have removed the duchess as their patron.

A spokesperson from BHS confirmed that Sarah, Duchess of York, is no longer an ambassador for the British Heart Foundation, expressing gratitude for her past support in funding cardiovascular disease research. The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation expressed dismay over the revelation of the email and distanced itself from the duchess, stating that it would be inappropriate for her to remain associated with the charity.

Founders of the charity, Nadim and Tanya Ednan-Laperouse OBEs, mentioned that Sarah Ferguson had not been actively involved with the organization for some time. As a result of the recent disclosures, they decided to end her patronage. Prevent Breast Cancer also announced the termination of the duchess’s patronage and thanked her for her previous contributions.

Additionally, Teenage Cancer Trust ended its 35-year relationship with the duchess, conveying appreciation for her past support. Children’s Literacy Charity and Julia’s House also severed ties with the duchess, citing recent information about her correspondence with Jeffrey Epstein as the reason for their decisions.

The controversial email, dated April 26, 2011, showed the duchess apologizing to Epstein for her previous statements linking him to paedophilia. Despite her previous stance against him, she expressed regret and vowed to sever all ties with him. Reports revealed that she later sent another apologetic email to Epstein, expressing fear and regret for not replying earlier.

The duchess’s message to Epstein emphasized their past friendship but acknowledged the advice she received to distance herself from him and the potential repercussions on her family. These revelations have led to several charities cutting ties with Sarah Ferguson due to her association with Epstein.