Princess Kate, 43, who became patron of Tŷ Hafan children’s hospice in South Wales during her visit, joined Maggie Forbes, four, in leaving their handprints along the main corridor yesterday.
The special moment came as the Princess met with the Forbes family, including Maggie’s parents Alex and Dan, along with her siblings Felix, 12, and Lottie, who turns 10 today.
The handprints, which line the corridor leading to the canteen, create a bright and welcoming atmosphere in the hospice’s central hub.
The Forbes family drew parallels between Kate and her predecessor, Princess Diana.
The Forbes family drew parallels between Princess Kate and Princess Diana
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Dan said: “Diana is always thought of as the royal who had a people touch.”
“You could see that today with the princess.
“She put people at ease immediately.”
Tŷ Hafan provides crucial support for families like the Forbes, whose son Felix lives with Miller-Dieker Syndrome, a neurological disorder.
Princess Kate became patron of the hospice during her visit
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Alex Forbes explained to People that Kate offered to create handprints together with Maggie.
He said: “She was talking about the handprints and how lovely they are.”
Lottie Forbes assisted in the activity, helping to paint Princess Kate’s hand while the Princess painted Maggie’s.
Alex Forbes said: “It was really warming and easy. You can tell she is a mum. It was easy to see in the way she was so engaging with the girls.”
Princess Kate visited the Tŷ Hafan children’s hospice in South Wales yesterday
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Dan Forbes said: “It feels like you are speaking to a mom, first and foremost. She will bring awareness to what this place does.”
Despite initial predictions of a two-to-four-year life expectancy, Felix has defied odds and is now 12-years-old.
Dan revealed: “We were asked where we would like to be if he didn’t make it through the night, and we immediately chose here.”
Princess Kate, who is mother to Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, has taken over the patronage from King Charles, who had served as patron since 2001.
Princess Diana was originally selected as the charity’s patron in 1995, but passed away in 1997 before the centre’s completion two years later.
