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A visit from our Patron The Duke of Sussex

WellChild Patron, The Duke of Sussex met a WellChild Award winner and a WellChild Nurse on his visit to Oxford on Tuesday May 14th.

By Matt James · May 14, 2019

Duke of Sussex Oxford visit 2019

WellChild Patron, The Duke of Sussex met a WellChild Award winner and a WellChild Nurse on his visit to Oxford on Tuesday May 14th.

The Duke was visiting patients and staff at Oxford Children’s hospital when he met up with WellChild Award winner Mikayla Beames who won her WellChild Award in 2016. He also met WellChild Nurse Laura Breakwell who cares for seriously ill children and young people from across Oxford, helping them to leave hospital as soon as possible so they can be cared for at home with the proper support.

Now aged 13, Mikayla was diagnosed at the age of four with grade three brain cancer, as a result of her condition she has been left with very little vision and is registered blind, she also has epilepsy. But despite her health issues she is a remarkably positive and energetic girl who pursues interests such as Brownies. She has also set up her own charity, Team Mikayla, to give treats to other children who have cancer and she is an active participant in the work the charity does to raise funds.

As part of his visit The Duke went on a tour around the Children’s Hospital, where he stayed and chatted with young patients on the wards.

Lady Baldry, Chair of the Children’s Hospital Benefactors Board and Trustee of Oxford Hospitals Charity said: “The Children’s Hospital is such a special place and we are absolutely thrilled that The Duke came to meet our patients, brilliant staff and hospital supporters.

“It’s been a particular privilege to introduce him to some of the wonderful families who have worked so hard to fundraise for the hospital.  It’s been a very special day indeed.”