Princess of Wales channels Diana's spirit with heartfelt gesture in healing garden
During a quiet, unannounced visit to Colchester Hospital's RHS Wellbeing Garden earlier this month, Princess Catherine captured hearts with a simple yet deeply meaningful act that evoked the legacy of Princess Diana.
While planting ‘Catherine’s Roses’—a variety named in her honor—the Princess of Wales was offered gardening gloves. She politely declined, saying she wanted to “feel the earth.” The spontaneous moment sparked emotional reactions, reminding many of Diana's grounded nature and her preference for breaking with tradition to foster genuine human connections.
Diana, who often chose not to wear gloves during public engagements, believed in direct, personal interaction. Her willingness to forego royal formalities became a hallmark of her compassionate approach—a spirit that Catherine continues to honor in her own way.
Royal fans quickly celebrated the gesture online. One admirer wrote, “Not afraid to get dirty, she's more daring and willing to try exotic foods, loves sports—she is like the coolest woman ever!” Another added, "Great on you Catherine for not worrying about your nails. You are one in a million." A third echoed the sentiment: "Just love her. William found an absolute diamond, and I cannot wait until she's my queen."
The visit also marked another important moment in Catherine's journey back into the public eye. After announcing a cancer diagnosis last year, the Princess is now in remission and has slowly resumed official duties. During her time at the hospital, she spoke candidly with patients about the emotional weight of a cancer journey.
“It is life changing for anyone,” she said. "Whether it's the first diagnosis or post-treatment, it has a huge impact—both on the patient and the family. And sometimes that impact goes unrecognized."
As the current holder of the Princess of Wales title, Catherine continues to reflect the grace, empathy, and authenticity associated with Princess Diana. Whether through her charitable work or quiet moments like this one in the garden, she ensures that Diana's legacy remains a living part of the royal family's story.
