Young patients at a children’s clinic in London received a pair of special visitors on Tuesday.
Through visits to hospitals and hospices, Kate has seen firsthand the impact that comprehensive care and support can have upon young children.
The palace says her patronage of Evelina London “provides an opportunity to champion the medical professionals working on the front-line in children’s healthcare, and shine a light on their work supporting children in their early years.”
Marian Ridley, Director of Evelina London, said in a statement they were “absolutely delighted and deeply honored” that the royal mom was taking up the post.
Chris Jackson/Getty
Kate Middleton and Prince William.Beretta/Sims/REX/Shutterstock
Kate Middleton.Chris Jackson/Getty
“The Duchess shares our passion for giving children and young people the very best start in life and Her Royal Highness’ support will help champion the life-saving care our staff are providing to our patients,” said Ridley. “It is a huge pleasure to welcome Their Royal Highnesses back to our hospital and we are absolutely delighted that they are able to join us as we begin to celebrate our milestone 150th anniversary. We are immensely grateful for Their Royal Highnesses’ support and we look forward to working closely with The Duchess as our Patron.”
Kate also visited Evelina London earlier this year– in February, when she was pregnant withPrince Louis.
While visiting the clinic, which is set to mark its 150th birthday next year, the royal parents spoke with staff and parents and met children as they took part in Christmas-themed fun. She even received a cute curtsy from a girl handing her a bouquet of flowers!
Kate Middleton.Tim Rooke/REX/Shutterstock
One young patient – 12-year-old Esme Orbell, who has been coming to see the specialists at the hospital as she has right hemiplegia – says of Kate, “She was so polite and lovely, and talked to everyone. She wished me a happy Christmas.”
Her mother, Jackie, adds that they came to London from Bury St. Edmonds, in Suffolk, for the appointment today. “We have been coming here for eight years and to have the royals come in today has made it really special for her. It made our trip worthwhile.”
One staffer said they chatted about the new decorative artwork that has been recently painted along the walls of the hospital hallway.
William, 36, spoke about football injury with one young boy while Kate chatted with young moms holding babies.
Prince William.Chris Jackson/Getty
The outings came a week after William and Kate spent two days helping make theholidays fun for military familiesandservicemen and women at home and abroad.
source: people.com
