At a poignant garden party at Buckingham Palace, the Prince and Princess of Wales celebrated the memory of Liz Hatton, a remarkable young photographer who inspired many during her courageous battle against cancer. Liz, who tragically passed away at the age of 17, captured hearts with her tenacity and artistic spirit, leaving behind a legacy that deeply touched both the royal family and the nation.
During the garden party, Liz's nine-year-old brother, Mateo Robayna, presented two Jellycat soft toys to William and Catherine. These gifts—an adorable lemon tart for the Princess and a quirky pickled onion for the Prince—were significant not only for their whimsical nature but also for their emotional resonance. Liz had a penchant for giving similar stuffed toys to those who brought her joy, and the soft toys served as a heartfelt tribute to her memory. The Princess of Wales noted that the choice of the lemon tart matched her dress, illustrating the special connection they shared.
Liz had been invited to Windsor Castle just months earlier to fulfil a dream of photographing the Prince of Wales during an investiture ceremony. This encounter was not just a highlight of her photography journey; it was a testament to her bravery in the face of an aggressive desmoplastic small round cell tumour, a rare form of cancer diagnosed in her early teens. Her battle against the illness was both inspiring and heartbreaking, as she made the most of each moment and pursued a "bucket list" of photography experiences.
The royal couple had stayed in touch with the Hatton family throughout Liz’s illness. Following her passing, they expressed their sorrow in a heartfelt tribute, describing Liz as “a brave and humble young woman.” Their bond with her family has been a source of comfort amid the immense grief they experienced. As her mother, Vicky Robayna, revealed, the royal couple particularly inquired about Liz’s favourite foods; Katherine and William even arranged for a special lemon drizzle cake during their visit, which Liz later described as the best she had ever tasted.
In light of their loss, Vicky and her husband Aaron have established a charity named Capture, aimed at raising awareness and funds for research into the rare cancer that took Liz’s life. The charity has ambitious plans, including fundraising events and a photo calendar featuring Liz's work, set to launch on what would have been her 18th birthday. This commitment to continuing Liz’s legacy serves as an inspiring reminder of her spirit and the compassion that defined her life.
The garden party, attended by various figures including Holocaust survivor Steven Frank and other philanthropic members of the royal family, embodies the tradition of recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to society. It is a time when community stalwarts and those who inspire can be acknowledged and celebrated, demonstrating the enduring impact of kindness and resilience.
Additionally, with the Princess of Wales embracing her own challenges—after recently completing cancer treatment—Liz’s story resonates even more deeply. The shared experiences between the two women foster a unique connection that exemplifies strength in adversity. Catherine’s compassion towards Liz and her family highlights the role of the royal family in offering support to those facing monumental challenges.
The royal couple's affection for Liz, her family, and the incredible story of her journey reminds us all of the strength found in community and the importance of cherishing every moment, no matter how difficult the circumstances may be.
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Source: Noah Wire Services