The Prince and Princess of Wales have paid tribute to Liz Hatton, a talented young photographer and cancer patient who sadly passed away on November 27th. At just 17 years old, Liz bravely battled a rare and aggressive tumor while pursuing her passion for photography and completing an inspiring bucket list.
Their Royal Highnesses met the Liz in October, where they called her ‘a talented young photographer whose creativity and strength’ inspired them both. Prince William came across Liz’s story via one of his Patronages, the London Air Ambulance. The future King asked Liz to join him at an investiture on 2nd October, where the likes of Mark Cavendish, Waynes Barnes and Alistair McCoist received their honours.
Liz with her family, alongside The Prince and Princess. (Kensington Royal)
Liz’s diagnosis came in January, the same month as Catherine’s own abdominal surgery that later revealed a cancer diagnosis, and was given anywhere from six months to three years to live. About 12 people each year are diagnosed with this each year in the UK and there is no standard treatment pattern for it.
Writing on their social media channels, The Prince and Princess of Wales wrote the following:
‘We are so sorry to hear that Liz Hatton has sadly passed away. It was an honour to have met such a brave and humble young woman. Our thoughts and prayers are with Liz’s parents Vicky and Aaron and her brother Mateo at this unimaginably difficult time.
The message was signed – W & C – highlighting how it was a personnel message from them both.
Catherine and Liz shared a hug upon meeting. (Kensington Royal)
Liz’s photography bucket list, launched in January, became a source of inspiration to many. Over the past year, she captured a variety of events and notable figures, including comedian Michael McIntyre, the red carpet at the MTV Europe Music Awards, and the London Air Ambulance. She even collaborated with renowned photographer Rankin, helping to lead a fashion shoot.
Writing on X, Liz’s mother said: ‘Our incredible daughter Liz died in the early hours of this morning. She remained determined to the last. Even yesterday she was still making plans. We are so very proud of the kindness, empathy and courage she has shown in the last year. She was not only a phenomenal photographer, she was the best human, and the most wonderful daughter and big sister we could ever have asked for. No one could have fought harder for life than she did. There is a gaping Liz shaped hole in our lives that I am not sure how we will ever fill. We have so much gratitude to every single one of you, whether you offered to help, or liked or shared posts – you ensured Liz’s last two months were her very best. She flew high until the end.’
