Princess of Wales issues emotional message during Children’s Hospice Week
Princess Catherine has spoken publicly for the first time since her absence from Royal Ascot, sharing a moving message to mark Children’s Hospice Week.
In her statement, the Princess of Wales honoured families facing life-limiting childhood illnesses and praised the tireless efforts of hospice staff. She drew on her experience as Royal Patron of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices and, more recently, Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice in South Wales.
“No parent expects to hear that their child has a serious health condition that could shorten their life,” she wrote. “It leaves families heartbroken, fearful of the future, and often desperately isolated.”
Kate described children’s hospices as “vital lifelines,” emphasising their role in supporting families “through life, death, and beyond.” She praised their work in lifting spirits through “laughter, fun and play” and through “listening, holding, caring and sharing.”
Released via social media by Tŷ Hafan and the national charity Together for Short Lives, the message underscores the Princess’s continued dedication to causes close to her heart despite stepping back from public engagements to focus on her health.
She concluded with a call to action: “This Children’s Hospice Week, I hope you will join me in celebrating the life-changing work they do and thanking them for the vital care they provide to children and families experiencing the most challenging times.”
