The Princess of Wales, known to the public as Kate, has revealed the informal name she uses online, "Catherine Wales," which she employed when making a personal donation to an 11-year-old paraplegic boy. She met Ted Haslam while undertaking the Three Peaks Challenge over the weekend.
Instead of her royal title, the Princess utilized her territorial designation, a geographical indicator of connection to a place, for the donation on the boy's JustGiving page. Kate, 44, chatted with Ted Haslam as he was transported up Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain, by a team of 15 friends and family members, including his father.
While the exact amount of Kate's donation was not disclosed, it is understood to be in the region of £1,000 to £2,000. Ted Haslam has raised over £14,000 for Molly Ollys Wishes, a charity that supports children with terminal and life-threatening illnesses across the UK. Kate, listed as a top donor, left a message on Ted's page: "One of the real highlights of the Three Peaks Challenge was meeting inspiring people like you along the way. Huge congratulations to the entire team for raising money for such a wonderful cause. C."
Three Peaks Challenge
The Princess's expedition involved climbing Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in England, and Snowdon in Wales within a 24-hour period, starting Saturday evening. Kate's challenge was described as a "personal" endeavor to raise money for a cancer charity and to "explore life beyond diagnosis." She trekked 23 miles with over 10,000 feet of ascent, covering a driving distance of 462 miles between the peaks. She completed the challenge solo, supported by Mountain Rescue, and was met at the end by her husband, Prince William, and their children, George, Charlotte, and Louis, as well as her parents and brother.
Kensington Palace indicated that this expedition may be a first for the Royal Family, with the Princess being the first member to complete the Three Peaks Challenge. The Royal Family's official social media account congratulated her on the accomplishment.
Kate explained that the trek was undertaken not just as a physical feat but to "give something back" and to raise awareness of the broader impact of serious illness. In a video message, she shared that she had met "incredible people" living with and beyond cancer, stating, "I know personally how difficult that journey is." She added that she was "grateful to be here, to be strong enough to walk these hills" but that the primary motivation was to "give something back and acknowledge, really, all the incredible work going on up and down this country."
Personal Connection to Cancer Care
In a written message, the Princess shared her successful completion of the trek, emphasizing its purpose beyond physical exertion: "as a chance to explore life beyond diagnosis and to give something back." She highlighted The Royal Marsden Hospital as a place of personal significance, whose care has been "life changing for so many people." Through the challenge, she aimed to raise awareness of the "deeper impact of serious illness and the importance of holistic healthcare."
Kate, who received treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer in early 2024, stated that she understands personally how cancer can affect every aspect of an individual's life. She noted that the illness tests people "physically, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually," with challenges that "ripple outwards, touching families, friendships, work and the quiet moments we spend alone with our thoughts." She added, "Cancer doesn't just affect the body. It changes how you think and feel, and profoundly affects every aspect of life. I know this personally."
Funds raised through the challenge will support holistic care initiatives at The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity and research into how such care can complement clinical treatments. Dame Cally Palmer, chief executive of The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, expressed gratitude for the Princess's commitment and support. The Princess concluded her message by emphasizing the importance of staying grounded and connected, stating, "Together, we can stand alongside everyone navigating life with cancer, ensuring no-one faces this disease feeling unseen or unsupported. Please know you are not alone."
The Princess, who has advocated for outdoor activities, signed her personal message with a "C."
Kate, diagnosed with cancer early in 2024 and having completed chemotherapy, announced her remission in January 2025. This challenge marks a significant step in her gradual return to public duties, following a recent working trip to Italy.