Illness not only affects the person diagnosed but also has a significant impact on their families and loved ones. Sarah, Duchess of York, understands this firsthand. In an exclusive interview with HELLO!, Sarah opens up about her battle with breast cancer and how her daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, rallied around her during her treatment. She describes a cancer diagnosis as a bomb going off for the whole family, bringing an end to normal life. For Sarah’s daughters, witnessing their mother’s illness had a profound effect on them. They were incredible in their support, visiting her and helping her through the aftermath of her mastectomy. Sarah emphasizes the importance of taking time away from home to clear one’s mind and focus on wellness and the future.
As the Patron of Ruddi’s Retreat, a charity that provides respite stays at Primrose Valley caravan park in Filey, Yorkshire, Sarah is dedicated to supporting families dealing with cancer or other life-limiting illnesses. The charity was founded by Ali Jones, a mother whose son, Ruddi, was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma (a soft tissue cancer) at the age of six months. It aims to offer families a chance to come together and create precious memories by providing respite breaks. The facility currently has four luxury adapted caravans and hopes to expand to help even more families.
Since 2012, Ruddi’s Retreat has helped over 3,000 families from across the UK. The respite breaks serve as an opportunity for families to temporarily escape their day-to-day concerns and enjoy quality time together. These breaks have proven to be particularly meaningful for families whose children or parents have only a few months to live. The reduction in stress levels and the positive impact on mental and physical health are evident not only for the individuals dealing with illness but also for their siblings and other family members. Sometimes, all a family needs is a simple recharge of their batteries to bring joy and kindness into their lives.
Sarah’s own experience with breast cancer has given her a new appreciation for the families that Ruddi’s Retreat supports. Fortunately, her cancer was detected early through a mammogram, which she nearly postponed. Sarah credits her sister Jane for urging her to go for the screening. She urges everyone to recognize the importance of regular check-ups and screenings, as early detection can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.
Sarah acknowledges that it’s not just parents who bear the weight of a child’s illness. She reflects on her daughter Beatrice’s concern when Eugenie had to undergo major surgery for scoliosis at the age of 12. Siblings often absorb a significant amount of the disruption and stress that accompanies a serious illness in the family. They can sometimes feel neglected due to the understandable focus on the sick child. Providing an opportunity for the entire family to focus on joy during a holiday or respite period can make a world of difference.
Sarah expresses her admiration for Ruddi, the young man who inspired the creation of Ruddi’s Retreat. Despite facing limitations, he lives life to the fullest and loves spending time with his family. Ruddi’s dedication to the charity and his involvement in helping others serves as an inspiration to all.
In the spirit of Christmas giving, Sarah encourages readers to consider making a donation to the Big Give’s Christmas Challenge. Even the smallest contribution can make a difference. Sarah hopes to purchase more caravans for Ruddi’s Retreat to continue bringing light to families during their darkest times. She highlights the remarkable work of the Big Give, which doubles any donations made through their website. Sarah understands that many people may be facing financial constraints, but she encourages them to support their favorite charity through the Big Give, where £10 becomes £20.
Sarah, Duchess of York, uses her personal experience with breast cancer to empathize with families facing illness. Alongside her daughters, she emphasizes the importance of support and understanding during challenging times. Through her involvement with Ruddi’s Retreat, she is determined to provide families with respite and an opportunity to create cherished memories. Sarah calls on readers to contribute to the Big Give’s Christmas Challenge, doubling their impact and spreading joy to families in need.
Leave a Reply