Kate Middleton praises 'laughter and play' in moving tribute to children's hospices
The Princess of Wales has shared a moving message to mark Children's Hospice Week, as she praised the "life-changing work" of children's hospices across the UK
Kate Middleton has commended the "extraordinary work" of children's hospices in a heartfelt message, encouraging the public to support and recognise the vital services they provide during Children's Hospice Week.
The Princess of Wales penned a personal note for the occasion, which is spearheaded by Together for Short Lives, the UK charity dedicated to children's palliative care. The week-long event, concluding on Sunday, June 22, aims to highlight the crucial role of children's hospice services.
As Royal Patron of East Anglia's Children's Hospices (EACH) and Tŷ Hafan Children's Hospice in South Wales, Kate has a close connection with these organisations.
In her message marking the end of Children's Hospice Week, the princess lauded the dedication of staff and healthcare workers who bring joy and comfort to seriously ill children, acknowledging the "life-changing work" of the nation's children's hospices in supporting families "through life, death and beyond".
"No parent expects to hear that their child has a serious health condition that could shorten their life," she wrote, addressing the harsh reality many families face, which can leave them devastated, anxious about what lies ahead, and feeling incredibly isolated, reports the Mirror.
"Being able to access the support of one of the UK's 54 children's hospices means they don't have to face that future alone. As Patron of East Anglia's Children's Hospices and Tŷ Hafan Children's Hospice in South Wales, I have the immense privilege of seeing for myself the extraordinary work of our children's hospices.
"Lifting spirits through laughter, fun and play, as well as listening, holding, caring and sharing, they support children and families through life, death and beyond. This Children's Hospices Week, I hope you all 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."
Kevin Clements, Chief Executive of EACH, said: "We're so incredibly grateful for The Princess ' invaluable contribution as our dedicated Royal Patron. Her ongoing support and vast profile have projected our charity onto the global stage and this latest message is a perfect way to mark Children's Hospice Week.
"It's a great opportunity to shine a light on the work of children's hospices generally, as well as giving us an opportunity to raise awareness and remind everyone of the need for public support, given we rely on donations for the majority of our income."
Nick Carroll, Chief Executive Officer of Together for Short Lives, expressed his gratitude saying: "We are incredibly grateful to The Princess of Wales for celebrating Children's Hospice Week, and the amazing work of children's hospices, with her personal message of support this year.
"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. Together with all of our children's hospices, we thank The Princess of Wales for her invaluable contribution."
Moreover, Irfon Rees, the Chief Executive of Tŷ Hafan Children's Hospice, shared his heartfelt thanks: "We are deeply grateful to The Princess of Wales, Patron of Tŷ Hafan Children's Hospice, for her incredible support. Her Royal Highness is clearly profoundly committed to the needs of children and young people, and in January, during her first visit to our hospice as our Patron, her kindness and empathy were evident.
"Having HRH's support during Children's Hospice Week means that not only can we take time to celebrate the difference that children's hospices, including Tŷ Hafan, have made to the lives of so many families, but that we can also remind people of the importance of supporting their local children's hospice so that no family has to live their child's short life alone."
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