The Duchess of Cambridge has released a video in support of Children’s Hospice Week, which begins today, asking for us all to ‘shine a light on the dedicated and inspirational staff’ who support children with life-limiting conditions and their families.
Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge speaks out in support of children’s hospice week
Catherine is a supporter of children’s hospice care, being patron of East Anglian Children’s Hospice, and the week is organised by Together For Short Lives, a charity which helps those who are not expected to live for much longer due to an illness or disease.
The week aims to raise awareness of the work of the UK’s 54 children’s hospices and the support offered by children’s palliative care charities, and in turn funds for charitable organisations which support them.
“For any parent, being told that your child may have a life-limiting condition, or may die young, will be one of the most difficult and isolating experiences you can face,” the Duchess began.
“Having someone to help you come to terms with this news, and the professional support and care that comes with this, can make an enormous difference. It can help families make the most of every precious moment they have together.
Watch The Duchess of Cambridge, @EACH_hospices Patron, speak about the inspiring work of UK Children’s Hospices, for #ChildrensHospiceWeek pic.twitter.com/EHNGY1RtUE
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) May 22, 2017
“They deliver first-class care in a safe environment that feels as close to home as possible, full of colour, warmth, love and support,” Kate said.
‘Today as we mark the beginning of Children’s Hospice Week – I hope you will join me in shining a light on the dedicated and inspirational staff and volunteers, and the lifeline services they provide for children and their families.
‘The work they do is extraordinary, and it really does make a world of difference.”
Ed Sheeran, also a patron of EACH, has his track ‘Lego House’ featured at the beginning of the video.
“The Duchess’s words, and her amazing support for Children’s Hospice Week since 2013, have been transformational, helping to raise awareness of the needs of seriously ill children and families and to show that help is at hand,” said the chief executive of Together For Short Lives, Barbara Gelb.
Kate’s message was recorded on a visit to EACH in Quidenham in January.
