During her visit to Ty Hafan, Princess Kate shared a special moment with five-year-old Oscar Fletcher, who has complex medical needs.
Wales: A little boy named Oscar stole the spotlight during Princess Kate’s visit. He was zooming around Ty Hafan children’s hospice in his walker. Kate met Oscar, five, on Thursday, and they had a delightful encounter in the corridor.
When Kate spotted Oscar, she laughed and said, “There you are! I was in your way earlier.” Oscar’s mom, Bryony, was sad she couldn’t be there but was thrilled to see their interaction on the news. She joked, “Who moves the Princess out of the way?”
Oscar has CHARGE syndrome, which means he has complex medical needs. He spent his first 19 months in the hospital before going to Ty Hafan. Bryony said the hospice has been a lifeline for them.
While Bryony was surprised by Kate’s visit, she wasn’t shocked that Oscar was exploring the hospice. “He loves wandering around,” she said. The space is much bigger than their home, so he enjoys using his walker there.
Oscar was so busy exploring that he missed his chance to chat with Kate during the stay and play sessions. But later, he bumped into her again as she headed to the memorial garden, and they finally had their moment.
After apologizing for being in his way, Kate crouched down to ask Oscar how old he was. She complimented him on getting some good exercise. Soon, Oscar was off exploring again, with Kate following him through the hospice.
Bryony was shocked to learn about Kate’s visit. The day before, the charity asked if it was okay for Oscar to have photos taken because of a VIP guest. Bryony thought it was just another visit from local sports teams.
When a friend called to tell her about the news, Bryony couldn’t believe it. She was excited that Oscar got to meet Kate, who will now be a patron of Ty Hafan, just like Princess Diana and the King.
“It was amazing to see her interact with Oscar,” Bryony said. “It’s such a special memory for him.” She added that having the Princess visit was important for the families and children at Ty Hafan.
Ty Hafan helps families create normal memories that others might take for granted. Bryony was initially nervous about taking Oscar there, but it has become a sanctuary for them.
Kate said, “I was a bit nervous initially because hospices have sad connotations.” But once she arrived, all her worries disappeared. The hospice felt bright and welcoming.
“For us, day-to-day life can be really difficult due to Oscar’s complex needs,” Bryony explained. “Ty Hafan allows me to be Oscar’s mother, not just his carer.” The staff take care of his medical needs, making it a lifeline for them.
At Ty Hafan, Oscar gets to experience things he wouldn’t at home. Bryony was worried about taking him to the cinema, but he loved watching Inside Out 2 there. “It’s such an amazing memory we have,” she said.
Bryony believes having the Princess as a patron will make a difference. “Her name associated with the hospice shines a light on the great work it does,” she said.
Irfon Rees, chief executive of Ty Hafan, expressed gratitude for Kate becoming their patron. “We are deeply honoured,” he said. “Her Royal Highness will inspire children with life-shortening conditions and their families.”
