Kate Middleton makes moving visit to children's hospice as she is named patron
The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, has been announced as the new patron of Ty Hafan children's hospice in south Wales, a role previously held by the late Diana, Princess of Wales and King Charles. As part of her new position, Kate, 43, made a surprise visit to the hospice today, Thursday 30 January, where she spent time with children living with life-shortening conditions and their families.
The royal joined a ‘stay and play’ session where the children enjoy meaningful play and activities alongside their care. Kate, who wore a checked dress with pussybow detailing, also met with bereaved families supported by Ty Hafan. The unannounced trip is Kate's second this week, as she gradually returns to her Royal duties following her completion of chemotherapy treatment last summer.
Having recently confirmed she is in remission from cancer, Kate made a surprise appearance at a Holocaust Memorial Day commemoration on Monday. Later, she is expected to undertake another visit in south Wales celebrating excellence in Welsh textiles manufacturing.
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However, it's understood that this week's engagements don't signify a full return to work, rather a steady resumption of her official duties.
Irfon Rees, CEO of Ty Hafan, expressed his delight at Kate's visit, stating: "We are deeply honoured that Her Royal Highness the Princess of Wales has become patron of Ty Hafan and it was an absolute pleasure to welcome Her Royal Highness to our hospice for the first time today."
He added: "As our patron, Her Royal Highness will be an inspiration for children with life-shortening conditions and their families, our dedicated staff and volunteers and everyone who so generously supports us."
Ty Hafan was founded in 1999 by Suzanne Goodall, after a fundraising campaign lasting more than a decade, when she discovered there was no children’s hospice in Wales. Diana was patron during the fundraising phase and Charles first took up the role in 2001.
Mr Rees added: “No parent ever imagines that their child’s life will be short. Sadly, this is the reality facing thousands of families in Wales. We can’t stop this happening, but together we can make sure that no-one lives their child’s short life alone.”
