Princess Kate and Prince William recently met with Liz Hatton, a 16-year-old photographer who has been battling a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Liz, hailing from Harrogate, was invited to take pictures at Windsor Castle, where she was photographed hugging Princess Kate. The royal couple expressed their admiration for Liz’s creativity and strength in a personal social media message.
Liz shared her excitement about the meeting on her Instagram account, describing the royals as lovely, genuine, and kind people. She also posted a photo she took of cyclist Sir Mark Cavendish being knighted by Prince Charles. Liz’s journey with cancer began in January when she was diagnosed with desmoplastic small round cell tumours, an extremely rare form of cancer that typically occurs in the abdomen.
Despite the grim prognosis given by doctors, Liz remains determined to pursue her passion for photography. She created a bucket list of things she wanted to photograph, including a music festival, a fashion shoot, and the rehearsal of a major musical. The meeting between the royal couple and Liz was a heartwarming moment captured in photos that will undoubtedly be cherished by all involved.
This encounter holds special significance as it marks Princess Kate’s completion of her own chemotherapy treatment, a fact that adds a poignant layer to the shared experience. The Princess’s commitment to supporting individuals facing cancer has been evident throughout her journey, and this meeting with Liz is a testament to her ongoing dedication to using her platform for good.
Prince William became aware of Liz’s story through his involvement with the London Air Ambulance Charity, of which he is a patron. Following the investiture, the royal couple met with Liz privately to hear about her day and her journey, underscoring their genuine interest in her well-being. Princess Kate’s own battle with cancer has made her acutely aware of the challenges faced by individuals fighting the disease, and her empathy shines through in her interactions with Liz.
In a video message shared in September, Princess Kate expressed her relief at completing her chemotherapy treatment and emphasized the importance of staying “cancer free.” The past nine months have been a trying time for her family, and navigating the uncertainties that come with a cancer diagnosis has been a profound experience. Princess Kate’s resilience and determination to make the most of life mirror Liz’s own outlook, creating a bond between the two that goes beyond their shared love for photography.
The meeting between Princess Kate, Prince William, and Liz Hatton serves as a reminder of the power of human connection and compassion in the face of adversity. It showcases the ability of individuals to find strength and joy in moments of darkness, offering hope and inspiration to all who witness their journey.
