Additional Coverage:
- Kate Middleton Speaks Out in Touching Statement After Pulling Out of Royal Ascot Appearance (usmagazine.com)
Princess Kate Addresses Children’s Hospice Week Following Royal Ascot Absence
The Princess of Wales released a heartfelt statement in support of Children’s Hospice Week, just two days after missing the Royal Ascot. In her message, released Friday, June 20th, she acknowledged the difficult journey faced by families with seriously ill children.
“No parent expects to hear that their child has a serious health condition that could shorten their life,” the Princess stated, emphasizing the heartbreak and isolation experienced by these families. She highlighted the vital role of children’s hospices in providing support and care during these challenging times.
As Patron of both East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices and Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice in South Wales, the Princess spoke of witnessing firsthand the positive impact these organizations have. She described how they “lift spirits through laughter, fun and play,” while also offering crucial emotional support to families navigating life, death, and bereavement. The Princess urged the public to join her in celebrating the work of children’s hospices and acknowledging the vital care they provide.
The Princess of Wales was expected to attend Royal Ascot with Prince William on Wednesday, June 18th, but was unexpectedly absent. Her mother, Carole Middleton, and sister-in-law, Alizée Thevenet, attended in her place.
The Royal Ascot festivities, which began on Tuesday, June 17th with the arrival of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, concluded on Saturday, June 21st. The Princess’s statement coincided with Children’s Hospice Week, which ran from June 16th to 22nd.
The previous week, the Princess of Wales joined the royal family for Trooping the Colour, King Charles’ birthday parade. She and Prince William attended with their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. For the occasion, the Princess wore a vibrant blue Catherine Walker dress and Juliette Botterill hat, the color a tribute to the Irish Guards, of which she is Colonel.