Read Kate Middleton's poignant open letter to families

Kate Middleton has written a letter urging families to make the most of their time together, and to create loving memories.

The Duchess of Cambridge's letter was shared in support of Children’s Hospice Week, organised by the UK’s umbrella charity for children’s palliative care, Together for Short Lives. Kate herself is a royal patron of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices.

In her letter, she wrote, “Children's hospices provide vital sanctuaries for those experiencing the very toughest of times. They help families and carers build life long memories that are poignant, happy and often filled with laughter.”

"Whether through specialist play aimed at deepening relationships between children and their families, or through art and music therapy that helps young people express themselves and release their thoughts and feelings - the work of organisations like East Anglia's Children's Hospices can set a truly heart-warming example to us all."

"They provide a lifeline to children and families for however long support is needed and I hope that others join me in thanking them as we shine a light on their work during Children's Hospice Week. The theme this year is 'Moments that Matter'. It aims to make the most of the very precious time that those using hospice services have.”

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She continued, "Throughout the week we will hear amazing stories from families facing the toughest of futures. I hope that they will inspire each and every one of us to similarly make the most of the time we have with our own families, by ensuring every moment matters and that we create memories that last forever."

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The Duchess of Cambridge is mother to Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, so her letter comes across as incredibly heartfelt. She has been a patron of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices since 2012, releasing several letters since then.

A statement from EACH reads, “HRH The Duchess of Cambridge continues to be committed in her role as EACH Royal Patron and her involvement is a real asset to the work we do in providing care and support to life-threatened children, young people and their families across East Anglia.”