Local families visit the Queen as part of hospice Christmas celebration
The Russells were among families invited to Clarence House to meet HM Queen Camilla
Seven-year-old Ella Russell and her parents, Sarah and Christopher, from Moulton, Northamptonshire were invited to Clarence House as part of a Christmas celebration hosted by Her Majesty Queen Camilla for families supported by Helen & Douglas House.
Ella, who has a brain tumour and has been visiting Helen & Douglas House since 2023, joined five other children and their families cared for by the hospice.
Helen & Douglas House, based in Oxford, provides care for seriously ill children across Oxfordshire and surrounding areas, helping families cope with their child's life-limiting condition.
Her Majesty, who has been Patron of Helen & Douglas House since 2007, welcomed the families to Clarence House where they decorated a Christmas tree and joined the Queen for a special festive meal.
Sarah Russell described meeting the Queen and spending the day at Clarence House as “the most incredible experience.”
She said that Ella was particularly pleased to learn what was on the menu for the day:
“Ella was really excited because we'd been told that there was going to be sausages and she loves sausages. They were actually served by the Queen, and it was in the shape of a smiley face, so it was just amazing.”
Families were gifted personalised items, books, and festive treats.
The celebration also included a visit from Father Christmas, music from a military band, and reindeer outside Clarence House.
Sarah said: “From Santa being there to just the layout of the table, every detail had been thought of and for those children, it was just the most magical day.”
She highlighted how special these days are for children like Ella, who live with serious illness: “It's just so nice to see her so happy and to have the opportunity to have fun.
“She really deserves it because she's been through a lot in seven years and deserves to have the best experiences and be spoilt.”
David Whittingham, Chief Executive of Helen & Douglas House, explained that the festive period can be especially challenging for families supported by the hospice.
“Christmas can be a difficult time for families juggling the medical needs of their children with life-shortening conditions alongside the festivities,” David said.
“The children and families had such a magical time. Having Her Majesty the Queen as our Patron means so much to our charity as well as the families we support.”
Helen & Douglas House continues to provide care to terminally ill local children with over 70 children expected receiving support from them during this year’s festive period.