Kate Middleton has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Liz Hatton, a 17-year-old cancer patient she recently met during a heartfelt encounter at Windsor Castle. Liz passed away peacefully in the early hours of Wednesday at her home in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, after courageously battling an incurable desmoplastic small round cell tumor.
Diagnosed less than a year ago with the rare and aggressive cancer, Liz embraced her remaining time with remarkable determination. She created a bucket list of photography assignments she hoped to complete, a journey that caught the attention of the Prince and Princess of Wales.
In a touching gesture, Prince William and Kate invited Liz to Windsor Castle to photograph an investiture ceremony hosted by the Prince of Wales. The couple later surprised her with an invitation for tea, where Kate shared an emotional hug with Liz, a moment that resonated with many after a photograph of the encounter went viral.
Liz’s mother, Vicky Robayna, shared her daughter’s final moments with The Mail:
“Our lovely Liz died in the early hours of this morning. She remained determined to her last. Even yesterday, she was telling me to arrange nurses so she could do more things. She went out in a blaze of glory, with nearly everyone she cared about visiting her during her exhibition last week.”
Vicky added, “I could not be prouder of her. She faced each day with unbelievable bravery. Liz was never afraid of dying, but she was terrified of leaving her brother behind. It’s now our responsibility to honor her wishes and support him as she would have wanted.”
Liz’s courage and zest for life left a lasting impact on everyone she met, including the royal couple, who were moved by her resilience and creativity. Her story continues to inspire many as a testament to strength and determination in the face of adversity.
