The Duchess of Cambridge becomes Patron of Evelina London

The Duchess of Cambridge has become Patron of Evelina London. The announcement was made as Her Royal Highness visited Evelina London with The Duke of Cambridge.

During the visit, Their Royal Highnesses spoke to a group of parents about the care their children have received at Evelina London and joined patients as they took part in Christmas themed activities. 

Evelina London is preparing to celebrate the 150^th anniversary in 2019. The anniversary will be marked with events for patients, families and staff throughout the year.

The Duchess of Cambridge kicked off the celebrations by helping patients who have been treated at the hospital to complete a commemorative artwork and to unveil a special anniversary banner.

Speaking at Evelina London, The Duchess of Cambridge, said: “It’s always such a pleasure to come and meet patients and families who are here. A huge thank you to everyone here at Evelina for doing such an amazing job on a daily basis in supporting children and their extended families both here and also out in the community.”

Marian Ridley, Director of Evelina London, said: "We are absolutely delighted and deeply honoured The Duchess of Cambridge has chosen to become our Patron.

"The Duke and Duchess have a very special connection to Evelina London and their warmth, charm and sympathy have brought enormous joy to our staff and families whenever they’ve visited.

"It was a huge pleasure to welcome their Royal Highnesses back to our hospital and it was absolutely wonderful that they were able to join us as we begin to celebrate our milestone 150^th anniversary. We are immensely grateful for The Duchess’ support and we look forward to working closely with Her Royal Highness as our Patron.”   

Debbie Thompson spoke to The Duchess about the care her four-year-old son, Cruz, has received at the hospital. Cruz has a rare kidney condition and has been an Evelina London patient since he was born. He visits the hospital three times a week for dialysis. Cruz is featured on a special Evelina London 150^th anniversary banner and helped The Duchess to unveil it.

Debbie, a mother-of-three, said: “The Duke and Duchess were very down to earth and personable. They were interested in the care that Cruz has been receiving at Evelina London. They also said that they very impressed by the slide in the outpatients department and said that it looks like a lot of fun for the children.

"It feels like a real honour that Cruz has been chosen to represent Evelina London on its special 150^th banner. He absolutely loves coming to the hospital and is well known to the staff and patients. The staff really go out of their way to care for him and make his visits fun and enjoyable. I’m very thankful for the care he has received."

Between them, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have visited our hospital four times in the past two years. Find out more about the Duchess of Cambridge’s new role as Patron of Evelina London.