Princess Kate Middleton paused her demanding Three Peaks Challenge—a 24-hour trek scaling the highest mountains of Scotland, England, and Wales—to speak with 11-year-old Ted Haslam, who was carried to the summit of Ben Nevis in his wheelchair by his father, Paul, and a team of 15 friends and family members.
A Challenge Rooted in Resilience
Kate undertook the challenge to support the hospital where she received cancer treatment, describing it as ‘an opportunity to explore life beyond diagnosis—and give something back.’ She climbed Ben Nevis (Scotland), Scafell Pike (England), and Snowdon (Wales) starting Saturday night.
A Warm, Humorous Exchange on the Summit
As she approached Ted amid foggy, blustery conditions, Kate broke the ice with characteristic warmth and humour: ‘Not the best weather, is it? How are you doing, Ted? Aren’t you freezing?’ Noticing fellow climbers in light clothing, she added with a laugh, ‘So many people are just wearing t-shirts! Why do they do that?’
Spotting a plush toy accompanying Ted, she asked, ‘Who’s this? Is he your buddy? Does he have a name?’ A team member explained it was the mascot of Molly Ollys—a charity that had provided toys and equipment to Ted during his hospital stays.
When Kate asked if he’d been to the mountain before, Ted replied, ‘Never—it’s my first time.’ She responded gently, ‘It’s really a shame you can’t enjoy the view,’ as mist shrouded the peak. Then, turning encouraging, she said: ‘I’m truly impressed. You’ve already reached your second peak—well done! You’ve got this! We’ll cheer you on. Hope to see you at Snowdon—good luck!’
Ted’s Inspiring Story
Ted’s team completed the full challenge in 30 hours, raising funds for Molly Ollys, a charity supporting children with serious, life-limiting illnesses. Ted, son of an experienced mountaineer, became paralysed at age three after being diagnosed with an aggressive spinal tumour—described by doctors as doubling in size every 24 hours.
Other Encounters on the Climb
During her ascent, Kate also spoke with other hikers. Jackie Leung recalled spotting two cameramen first and assuming they were filming an elite athlete—only to realise moments later it was the future Queen of the United Kingdom. ‘I was speechless,’ he said, adding he couldn’t believe he’d met the Princess on the mountain.