Princess Kate makes emotional first visit since cancer diagnosis
Kate and William meet families of girls killed in Southport knife attack
The Princess of Wales made an unexpected visit to Southport alongside the Prince of Wales to meet the families of three girls who tragically died in a knife attack earlier this summer. This marks her first community engagement since her cancer diagnosis became public, and her first since the end of last year.
On Wednesday, Prince William’s trip to Southport was confirmed, but just before his arrival on Thursday, it was revealed that Kate would accompany him. Privately, they met with the families of six-year-old Bebe King, seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe, and nine-year-old Alice Dasilva Aguiar. These girls lost their lives in the July attack at The Hart Space community centre. During the incident, a Taylor Swift-themed yoga and dance session aimed at primary school children was in progress. Eight other children and two adults sustained injuries.
The royal couple also spoke with one of the dance teachers who was conducting the session. Their visit aimed to show ongoing support for the affected families, community, and first responders who dealt with the aftermath and subsequent riots. They met with members of the emergency services to hear their accounts of the day and discussed mental health support for staff with police, ambulance, and fire chiefs.
#PrincessKate accompanied #PrinceWilliam to #Southport for a private meeting with the families of the girls who tragically lost their lives in a stabbing #attackinJuly
They also made a public appearance to address #emergencyservice personnel#KateMiddleton #PrincessCatherine pic.twitter.com/WvfFBeeGj4
— Agedor.art (@agedorgallery) October 10, 2024
Kate expressed gratitude for the personnel’s efforts, acknowledging they had helped people during their “darkest times.” She added, “For you to witness that, you need support yourselves.” A police officer shared their experience of anxiety following the attack and taking time off work. The couple attentively listened to the workers’ stories.
Reflecting on her earlier meeting with the families of the three young girls, Kate told the emergency workers, “I can’t underestimate how grateful they all are for the support you provided on the day. On behalf of them, thank you.” She urged the personnel to look after themselves and not rush back to work.
When asked about the families’ well-being, Kate replied, “They’re OK. They’re managing it differently. All the families are so different.” She emphasised the importance of community support and sharing experiences to help process the tragic event.
👇Prince William and Princess Catherine met privately with the families of three children who were killed in the tragic knife attack in Southport and then spent time with emergency responders. pic.twitter.com/JfGofy576g
— TRH of Wales Fans Account (@TRHWalesFans) October 10, 2024
Following the attack, the prince and princess issued a statement expressing their sympathy and support for those affected. They also made a donation through their Royal Foundation to aid the National Police Wellbeing Service’s fundraiser for psychological and physical rehabilitation of police and ambulance personnel.
In August, the King met with some of the surviving children and commended the community’s bravery. Axel Rudakubana, who was 17 at the time and is now 18, has been charged with murder and attempted murder.
The visit came after the princess revealed her cancer diagnosis in March. In a September video, she confirmed she had completed preventative chemotherapy and would gradually resume light public duties. Last week, she was seen hugging teenage cancer patient Liz Hatton, and she has attended formal and family events like Wimbledon and Trooping the Colour this year. However, this Southport trip is her first community visit with Prince William since the end of 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why did the Princess of Wales visit Southport?
To meet the families of three girls who died in a knife attack and show support.
When was the Princess of Wales’ visit to Southport confirmed?
It was revealed just before Prince William’s arrival on Thursday.
What event was happening during the knife attack?
A Taylor Swift-themed yoga and dance session for primary school children.
How did the Princess of Wales express gratitude to the emergency personnel?
She acknowledged their efforts and urged them to look after themselves.
What has the Princess of Wales been doing since her cancer diagnosis?
She completed preventative chemotherapy and is gradually resuming light public duties.
