Guess who’s heading back to London next month? Prince Harry is making a special return for the WellChild Awards, an event close to his heart for 17 years! He’ll be celebrating incredible young heroes and their families. What do you think this means for his ongoing work with UK charities?
Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, is set to make a significant return to London next month, confirming his attendance at the prestigious WellChild Awards. This much-anticipated visit marks his first to the United Kingdom since April, underscoring his ongoing commitment to the charity he has passionately supported for nearly two decades.
As patron of WellChild for an impressive 17 years, the Duke will be present on September 8th for the charity’s 20th anniversary awards ceremony. This annual event celebrates the inspiring resilience of seriously ill children and young people across the UK, along with the dedication of their families and caregivers.
The chosen date, September 8th, carries profound significance, coinciding with the third anniversary of the passing of his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II. This poignant timing adds a layer of reflection to the Duke’s visit, recalling his previous engagements with the WellChild community during solemn anniversaries.
Indeed, three years prior, the Duke of Sussex had to cancel his attendance at the awards as the royal family gathered at Balmoral during the late Queen’s final hours. However, he returned the following year, delivering a heartfelt tribute to his grandmother, emphasizing her desire for him to continue his charitable work despite personal grief.
During the upcoming ceremony, the Duke is scheduled to play an active role, presenting the Inspirational Child Award for the 4-6 age category and delivering a speech. His personal involvement highlights the deep connection he maintains with the young award recipients and their unwavering spirit.
Expressing his sentiments, Prince Harry shared, “I am always privileged to attend the WellChild Awards and meet the incredible children, families and professionals who inspire us all with their strength and spirit.” This statement encapsulates his admiration for those involved and the profound impact the event has on him.
Matt James, Chief Executive of WellChild, echoed this enthusiasm, stating, “We are excited to celebrate the 20th WellChild Awards, in association with GSK.” He further emphasized the growing number of families caring for children with complex medical needs across the UK, recognizing the extraordinary support networks behind each child’s story.
The WellChild Awards serve as a crucial platform to acknowledge the tenacity of these remarkable children and young people, along with the unwavering commitment of their parents, siblings, and the dedicated professionals who ensure they can thrive within their homes and communities. This annual recognition event is a testament to the collective effort in supporting vulnerable families.
