Queen Camilla has presented a bravery medal to a seriously ill seven-year-old boy during a tea party at Clarence House. Rupert Williams, from Barry, South Wales, was among six children invited to the event organised by the charity Dreams And Wishes. The boy brought his Chief Scout’s Commendation for Meritorious Conduct medal, hoping the Queen might pin it on him, and she obliged as he beamed with pride.
Rupert lives with gastrointestinal failure and haemophilia A, conditions that have required extensive hospital stays. His mother, Hannah Williams, said the family has focused on “saying yes to life” this year. The Scouts award recognises Rupert’s remarkable commitment despite his severe illness, noting that he tries to keep laughing as it helps him feel better.
The tea party included a horse-drawn carriage ride down The Mall and a treasure hunt at the royal residence. Camilla helped serve food, chatted with the children and parents, and joined in the treasure hunt. The event ended with each child receiving a goodie bag, and Camilla gave each child a hug and kiss.
Dreams And Wishes chairman Tony Curtis praised Camilla’s involvement, saying she has supported the charity since its founding in 2011. The children were “really excited” by the carriage ride, according to Ms Williams, and Rupert raised a toast to Camilla with a glass of water to begin the party.
