Princess of Wales Finds Comfort in Memories of Young Cancer Victim During Garden Party
The Princess of Wales has spoken movingly about the memory of Liz Hatton, a talented teenage photographer who died after a ten-month battle with cancer, revealing that every time she encounters Jellycat soft toys she is reminded of the vibrant young woman. The remarks came during a Buckingham Palace garden party attended by both Princess Catherine and her husband, the Prince of Wales.
Liz Hatton was known not only for her photographic talent but also for her courage and creativity during her illness. In November 2024, at just 17, Liz passed away. Her connection to the Royal Family was celebrated in one of the final photos of her life, which captured a warm embrace between Liz and Princess Catherine at Windsor Castle, following an invitation to photograph Prince William during an investiture ceremony.
The Hatton family was again in the royal orbit during this week’s prestigious garden party. Liz’s nine-year-old brother Mateo presented Princess Catherine with two Jellycat plush toys – one shaped like a lemon pie and another like a pickled onion. Both gifts were bright yellow, matching the Princess’s pastel-hued Emilia Wickstead dress. In an exchange that delighted onlookers, Catherine remarked to Mateo, “It matches my dress, how did you know?”
Jellycat, a plush brand founded in London and now cherished by children worldwide, became a significant bond between the Hatton family and the Princess. Reminiscing about conversations she once shared with Liz, Catherine noted, “We talked about Jellycats a lot. Now, whenever I see their fish and chips toy, I think of Liz.” The Princess also praised Liz’s creativity and positivity throughout her illness, reflecting on her ability to “make the most of everything.”
Prince William also joined the exchange, telling young Mateo, “You look very smart today.” Noticing the Jellycat toys in the boy’s hands, William quipped, “These are like gold dust. My children go crazy for them – they’re practically children’s currency!”
The garden party held further significance for Princess Catherine, marking the first major royal event she has attended in nearly two years, following a period of intensive cancer treatment which forced her to step back from many public duties during 2024. William himself described the period as “brutal” for the family. Her appearance was unannounced, in keeping with traditional protocol for such events, and she was joined by other junior royals, including Princess Eugenie and Zara Tindall.
The guest list reflected a cross-section of individuals connected to the royal family’s charitable interests. Holocaust survivor Steven Frank, who was memorably photographed by Catherine in 2020 for the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II, was among those warmly greeted by the Princess. She hugged Mr Frank and said, “I feel like we’re old friends now. It’s wonderful to see you looking so well.” Their reunion included discussion of Mr Frank’s commitment to educating young people about the Holocaust, which Catherine highlighted as “amazing” and “so valuable.”
Ten-year-old Tony Hudgell, a familiar face to the royal couple, was also present. Tony, a double amputee and celebrated fundraiser, was invited again this year after missing the previous garden party due to heavy traffic. Prince William joked, recalling last year’s dismal weather, “You chose a much better year to come this time.”
Other senior royals, including the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, attended the event, which continues a tradition of royal garden parties bringing together individuals from across the nation who have demonstrated outstanding service, creativity, and resilience.
Princess Catherine’s heartfelt interactions during the event highlighted the monarchy’s ongoing focus on personal engagement and compassion, especially towards young people and those overcoming adversity. Her comments about Liz Hatton reinforced the personal connections that underpin many royal charitable efforts, ensuring that those who have touched the royal family are remembered with kindness and respect.