Kate Middleton has followed in her late mother-in-law’s footsteps as she paid a poignant visit to a children’s charity in Wales.
The Princess of Wales, 43, visited Tŷ Hafan, which means ‘Haven House’ in Welsh, in another solo visit as she returns to royal duties as it was confirmed that she had been made a patron of the charity.
The children’s hospice cares for children with life-shortening conditions and shares a special connection with Princess Diana as it was built with her fundraising support and she was the first patron of the charity.
Kate arrived at Tŷ Hafan on Thursday morning, wearing her old favourite houndstooth Zara midi dress with pussybow detail on the neckline that she has worn on several previous occasions.
The mother-of-three chatted to the children with ease and got involved in their activities including arts and crafts, hand-painting, and playing musical instruments. She shared a sweet moment with a girl in a wheelchair, making her laugh as she played with her rattle.
Irfon Rees, Chief Executive of Tŷ Hafan, said in a statement that they were ‘deeply honored’ that Kate has become Patron of the charity.
In a statement, she said: ‘We are deeply honoured that Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales has become Patron of Tŷ Hafan and it was an absolute pleasure to welcome Her Royal Highness to our hospice for the first time today.
‘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.
‘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.’
This comes two weeks after Kate paid an emotional visit to the hospital where she received cancer treatment, and later confirmed she is ‘in remission’ from cancer.
The Princess of Wales underwent treatment at the Royal Marsden Hospital last year and stopped to speak with several patients still receiving treatment and personally thanked staff for ‘looking after her so well.’
Kate spoke to patients during her visit and reassured them, saying: ‘There is light at the end of that tunnel… You are in the best of hands.’
