The Prince and Princess of Wales visited Charing Cross Hospital in London today to pay their thanks to the incredible NHS staff working through another difficult winter period. UK hospitals are facing high pressure from seasonal illness such as flu, with NHS bosses warning the situation could worsen due to the current cold snap.
It was due to be a solo engagement for Prince William, but Catherine decided to accompany her husband at the last minute, to show her support for the NHS and to thank teams at Charing Cross for their efforts. Wearing a maroon trouser suit with a matching blouse, Catherine bonded with a volunteer who worked with chemotherapy patients who told them how patients and visitors “sit there for hours”.
Kate, who is in remission from cancer and underwent six months of chemotherapy last year, said: “I know”. Then touched William’s arm next her and said: “You know.”
Their joint visit is to highlight the vital work of NHS Charities Together, of which The Prince and Princess are Joint Patrons, having taken on the patronage during the coronavirus pandemic.
After arriving at the busy hospital on Thursday morning, William and Catherine surprised healthcare staff who were enjoying their tea break. They joined the awestruck staff members, chatting to them about the pressures they are currently facing.
The royal couple also met with volunteers managed by the charity who help to improve care for patients and take pressure off the wider workforce.
William and Catherine are keen to learn how work funded by the Imperial Health Charity, which supports all five of Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust’s hospitals, is making a difference to the workforce and patients.
They then joined a roundtable with NHS charity CEOs and Trustees, policy makers and philanthropists to discuss the important role of philanthropy in the NHS.
The prince and princess’ joint visit comes a year after Catherine revealed she was in remission from cancer. The princess was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer at the start of 2024 and underwent six months of preventative chemotherapy.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.express.co.uk ’
