Queen Camilla visited the Maggie’s cancer support charity in Cheltenham on January 21, 2024, marking the organization’s significant milestone of 30 years. The Queen was joined by former Spice Girl, Geri Halliwell-Horner, who is a supporter of the charity. This visit comes shortly after the King, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2024, announced that his treatment schedule would be reduced, calling it a “personal blessing.”
During her visit, Queen Camilla met with staff and individuals impacted by cancer at the Maggie’s Cheltenham centre. She arrived under a clear umbrella amid rainy weather, greeting attendees with warmth and compassion. After meeting the mayor of Cheltenham, she shared an emotional embrace with Halliwell-Horner, asking, “How nice to see you. Is this your first visit?” Halliwell-Horner responded, “Yeah, amazing.”
Queen’s Engagement and Reflections
As the president of Maggie’s, Queen Camilla participated in various activities, including unveiling a portrait of herself created by artist Eileen Hogan. She also learned about the recently revamped garden at the centre. In her speech, the Queen expressed her happiness to return and celebrate the charity’s achievements.
She reflected on her first encounter with the late founder, Maggie Keswick Jencks, recalling their meeting in the 1960s at her boutique, Annacat. “I remember her then as being warm, funny, and generous,” the Queen said. “She understood the importance of feeling in control, rather than a helpless victim.” Queen Camilla emphasized that Maggie believed in the need for a comforting environment for those facing cancer, where they could receive expert support and share both laughter and tears.
During the visit, the Queen joined a reception with about 50 guests, including staff and individuals who have benefitted from the charity’s services. She shared a cup of tea and chocolate biscuits with Caitlyn Warrington, a 23-year-old who has faced multiple battles with cancer since age 14. Camilla told Caitlyn and her mother, Nikki, that Maggie’s is “a life-changing place.”
Support and Community Impact
After the visit, Halliwell-Horner spoke about her growing appreciation for Maggie’s, describing it as “absolutely amazing.” She expressed admiration for the Queen, calling her a “formidable force of nature.” Halliwell-Horner noted that the Queen has been involved with Maggie’s since its inception, witnessing its growth and impact on the community.
Warrington also praised the Queen’s presence at the charity, stating, “I think raising awareness as well as having someone like that show support means a lot.” The Queen has been the president of Maggie’s since 2008 and has visited 18 of its 27 centres. The first Maggie’s opened in 1996 at the Western General Hospital in Edinburgh, providing free psychological, emotional, and practical support to those affected by cancer.
Both the King and the Princess of Wales were diagnosed with cancer nearly two years ago, with Kate announcing her remission at the beginning of 2025. Queen Camilla’s ongoing support for Maggie’s serves as a testament to her commitment to raising awareness and providing hope to those navigating the challenges of cancer.
