Princess Kate breaks silence after Ascot absence

Princess Kate has shared a heartfelt message in honour of Children's Hospice Week, reaffirming her deep commitment to families facing life limiting childhood illnesses.

In her touching statement, the Princess of Wales drew on her role as Royal Patron of two major organisations East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices and, more recently, Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice in South Wales, which she joined earlier this year.

The message, released via social media by Tŷ Hafan and the national charity Together for Short Lives, highlights Kate’s ongoing dedication to championing the work of children’s hospices across the UK.

"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 highlighted the extraordinary impact these facilities have on families in need.

“As Patron of these hospices, I have the immense privilege of seeing for myself the extraordinary work they do,” she shared. 

“They lift spirits through laughter, fun and play as well as through listening, holding, caring and sharing.”

She described the 54 children’s hospices across the UK as vital lifelines, providing compassionate care "through life, death, and beyond," ensuring families never have to face such devastating journeys alone.

Kate concluded her message with a heartfelt appeal to the public, "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."