The Duke and Duchess of Sussex attended a rather emotional event today – the WellChild awards, which recognize caretakers working on behalf of seriously ill children. Honorees include family members, health care workers, social workers and teachers, while Harry and Meghan met with a host of affected children.
The charity’s mission is to support the care of these children, allowing more of them to leave hospital and receive treatment at home. Harry has been patron of this organization for over a decade, but as he noted in his speech, today, for the first time, he was able to include his new wife.
A snippet from Harry’s remarks was shared by Kensington Palace via Twitter:
"At 10 years old, Scarlett plays a key role in caring for her sister Freya” — The Duke of Sussex pays tribute to Scarlett, one of tonight's inspirational @WellChild Award winners #WellChildAwards pic.twitter.com/gdQgbD8B1h
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) September 4, 2018
As there often are at engagements featuring children, there were quite a few adorable moments captured by reporters covering the event. My favorite is Harry and Meghan meeting a seven-year-old named Matilda who is suffering from spinal bifida. Per Matilda’s mother:
“They got down to Matilda’s level and she gave Meghan a posy. But she took one out and handed it back to Matilda and told her to keep it in her memory box. She made her feel so special. Prince Harry also made her give him a pinky promise and told her to never stop smiling. He told her she had such a lovely smile. They also wanted to meet Simon, her toy dog. She is inseparable from him.”
The full text of Harry’s speech is here:
“Once again this year, it is an absolute privilege to be in the company of such inspiring families and nurses – especially the children and young people that we’re all here to honour. First, let me congratulate all of those nominated tonight. Every one of you is truly amazing. You have shown all of us what it means to be a champion – whether for yourself, your family, your community, or someone in need.
“The stories that we’ve all just heard – of resilience, strength of spirit, and the power of working together – were without doubt, incredibly moving and motivating. They really sum up what WellChild is all about – giving families the best chance to care for their children at home, and supporting them through the reality of all that that entails.
“I would like to thank all the families here this evening. The mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters, and many other family members who are devoted to their children and are giving them the best care possible. You are such fierce advocates for your children and in doing everything in your power to give your family the best chance at a happy life. It is quite simply amazing.
“I would also like to pay tribute to the devoted nurses and volunteers across the UK who help give children and young people living with serious illness or exceptional health needs – a chance to be cared for at home instead of hospital.
“And I want to acknowledge the young people who have been dealt the toughest cards imaginable – but who persevere, rise above, and set the example of living life to the fullest. In fact you are often the ones who lift us up – your ‘can-do’ attitude and unwavering spirit serves as a constant reminder that we must always look to the positive and never give up.”
On a lighter note, we did learn that Harry’s favorite children’s film is Lion King, while Meghan is partial to the Little Mermaid and Harry is fond of Ballerina because its protagonist has red hair.
Meghan wore a black trouser suit, this time by Altuzarra. She paired it with a Stella McCartney clutch and a black silk Deitas camisole. I’m always a fan of Meghan’s trouser suits and this one is no different, however I did catch someone on Twitter commenting that color might have been more appropriate for a children’s event…and now I can’t help but agree. Everything about this was professional, polished and beautiful, but the more I think about it, the more I think something a bit brighter or merry might have been the way to go in retrospect. Regardless, if this is further indication of where Meghan’s style is headed as an HRH, then I am here for it!
We’ll next see the Sussexes on Thursday for an event honoring veterans, so I’ll see you then 🙂
I am very surprised to see the Duchess in black once again. I have noted over the years that black amongst the Royals, is worn to funerals or more serious occasions. It seemed even more inappropriate for a children’s event.
That’s generally the case, yes, with a few exceptions made for black tie evening events – though it is at the end of the day a matter of preference. Given that this engagement was technically in the evening, I don’t know that I’d go so far as to say the suit was inappropriate, but certainly something a bit lighter and brighter wouldn’t have been out of place.
I am surprised to see the Duchess in black yet again. Especially as it was a children’s event.