Queen Camilla has marked International Nurses Day with a visit to the staff and families involved in Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity, of which she is a patron
The Queen marked International Nurses Day by thanking those who care for some of the nation’s bravest kids.
Camilla saluted their “wonderful work” as she met patients, families and medical staff involved with Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity. The 76-year-old, a patron of the charity for seven years, was at the Royal London Hospital to celebrate today’s special event. She asked the nurses about their roles and goals, and praised the “lovely organisation”, telling the nurses: “Thank you for the wonderful work you do.”
Suzannah Goodchild and her foster son Max, nine, who are helped by epilepsy nurse Lisa Smith, said meeting the Queen meant “the absolute world.” Ms Goodchild said: “The visit was a great honour. It’s really fantastic that the profile of the charity is being escalated even higher because the work that these nurses do needs to be shouted from the rooftops.”
Ms Goodchild said Camilla was interested in her role as a trustee at the charity, adding: “You could feel she was really engaged. She didn’t rush, she was going to give people the time she felt that she and they needed, and that was wonderful.” The Queen visited the hospital’s Healing Suite, a room with oversized inflatable toys and games for patients and their families to play and unwind in.
When one girl aged four, whose 16-month-old sister is being cared for by the charity, gave a curtsey, the Queen complimented her necklace and shoes, telling her: “I’m sure you’re very helpful.” The family’s specialist paediatric nurse, Charlotte Duhig, said meeting the Queen was a “privilege”, adding: “The charity is brilliant. We get really good support from them, which filters through to our families and helps us give the best care.”
Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity provides over 150 specialist nurses to care for 36,000 seriously ill kids. Every year, Camilla invites some of the families it supports to decorate the Clarence House Christmas tree. Charity boss Louise Griew said: “Camilla is really passionate about the Roald Dahl nurses and interested in how they help. It’s wonderful to have her support.” International Nurses Day is held on May 12 because it was Florence Nightingale’s birthday.
