Catherine, Princess of Wales, marked her gradual return to public life on Thursday with a heartfelt visit to Tŷ Hafan, a children’s hospice located in Sully, Wales. During this visit, it was officially announced that she has become a patron of the hospice, which has been providing essential care and support to children with life-limiting conditions since its opening in 1999.
Engagement with Children and Families
At Tŷ Hafan, Catherine took the time to engage with the children currently receiving care, participating in a “stay and play” session that allowed her to connect with them in a meaningful way. In addition to spending time with the children, she met with families who have experienced the profound loss of a child, showcasing the hospice’s commitment to providing holistic support that addresses the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of both the children and their families, as noted by Kensington Palace.
Words from the Chief Executive
Irfon Rees, the chief executive of Tŷ Hafan, expressed gratitude for the visit, stating, “It was an absolute pleasure to welcome the princess to the hospice. 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.”
Continuing a Royal Tradition
Catherine is not the first royal to take on a patronage role at Tŷ Hafan. King Charles III, who was the Prince of Wales at the time, became a patron in 2001, and Diana, Princess of Wales, supported the hospice during its early fundraising efforts. This lineage of royal involvement underscores the hospice’s importance in the community and its impact on families facing difficult circumstances.
A Phased Return to Public Duties
This visit follows Catherine’s initial solo engagement of the year and is part of her planned return to public duties after stepping back for treatment last year due to an undisclosed cancer diagnosis. In September, she shared that she had completed her chemotherapy, expressing her commitment to staying cancer-free and her eagerness for a fulfilling year ahead.
Just a few days prior to her visit to Tŷ Hafan, Catherine appeared alongside her husband, Prince William, at a memorial event in London for Holocaust Memorial Day, where she interacted warmly with survivors. Earlier this month, she also visited The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, where she met medical staff and patients.
In a recent social media update, Catherine shared her journey, stating, “As anyone who has experienced a cancer diagnosis will know, it takes time to adjust to a new normal. I am however looking forward to a fulfilling year ahead. There is much to look forward to. Thank you to everyone for your continued support.”
