The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, has expressed her heartfelt praise for the transformative work carried out by the UK’s children’s hospices, just days after missing Royal Ascot for the second consecutive year. This marked absence comes as Kate continues to navigate a careful balance between resuming public duties and managing her recovery following cancer treatment.
Kate paid tribute to the 54 children’s hospices across the country that provide essential care for young patients facing life-limiting conditions. She emphasized their role not only in medical support but also in “lifting spirits through laughter, fun and play,” bringing comfort to both children and their families during incredibly difficult times.
Since announcing her remission in January, the Princess has steadily increased her public engagements, including appearances at Trooping the Colour, the Order of the Garter service, and a visit to the V&A’s storage facility in London. However, she remains cautious, ensuring her return to public life offers the flexibility needed for her ongoing health and well-being.
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In a written statement shared on social media ahead of Children’s Hospice Week, Kate acknowledged the profound challenges faced by families coping with a child’s serious illness. She said: “No parent expects to hear that their child has a serious health condition that could shorten their life. Sadly, this is the reality faced by thousands of families across the country, leaving them heart-broken, fearful of the future and often desperately isolated.”
As royal patron of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices and Ty Hafan Children’s Hospice in South Wales, Kate spoke of the “immense privilege” she feels witnessing the extraordinary care these institutions provide. “Lifting spirits through laughter, fun and play, as well as listening, holding, caring and sharing,” she said, these hospices support children and families “through life, death and beyond.”
Kate encouraged the public to join her in recognizing the vital work of children’s hospices during Children’s Hospice Week, an initiative led by the children’s palliative care charity Together for Short Lives. The week focuses on raising awareness and celebrating the essential services these hospices offer.
Nick Carroll, CEO of Together for Short Lives, commended Kate’s steadfast support: “Her ongoing support for Children’s Hospice Week over many years has helped to raise much-needed awareness of the life-changing work children’s hospices do every day of the year. Their extraordinary lifeline care for children with life-limiting and life-threatening illnesses enables families to make the most of their lives together, whether that’s for years, months or only hours.”
As Kate continues to prioritize both her health and her commitments, her dedication to championing the cause of children’s hospices remains steadfast, shining a light on the invaluable care these organizations provide.