On March 5, the Prince of Wales, 42, traveled to the Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading, England, to recognize the impact of NHS Charities Together, an organization that has supported healthcare staff and patients since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. His visit coincided with the five-year anniversary of the pandemic's beginning, offering a tribute to the resilience and dedication of frontline workers.
The hospital holds personal significance for William, as it is where Princess Kate, 43, was born in January 1982. It was also the site of the U.K.'s first recorded COVID-19 death in March 2020.
As a patron of NHS Charities Together, Prince William has played a role in supporting its fundraising efforts. The organization launched an urgent appeal in 2020 to provide essential resources for healthcare workers, raising over $19 million (£15 million) in just five days. Ultimately, the charity secured $200 million (£160 million) to aid NHS staff, volunteers, and patients. Kensington Palace reported that nearly two-thirds of NHS employees have benefited from initiatives funded by the campaign, including counseling services, rest areas, and community projects.
Prince William and Princess Kate previously visited the Royal Berkshire Hospital in December 2020 as part of a 1,250-mile tour across the U.K., aimed at connecting with communities facing unprecedented challenges during the pandemic.
Today, 90% of the initiatives launched in response to the health crisis remain active, including the Oasis Health and Wellbeing Centre and Garden at the hospital. During his visit, Prince William toured the facility, met with staff, and learned about the activities designed to support their physical and mental well-being.
The visit also served as a solemn reminder of the pandemic's toll. Trees have been planted in memory of two hospital staff members, Dr. Peter Tun and nurse Julie Edward, who lost their lives during the crisis. Additionally, NHS Charities Together, of which Princess Kate is also a patron, has helped fund one of the U.K.'s first Long Covid Clinics, offering ongoing support to those suffering from the long-term effects of the virus.
