Kate Middleton’s best friend’s mother has expressed her gratitude for a surprising and meaningful gesture from Buckingham Palace.
Queen Camilla recently made a dream come true for Tony Hudgell, a nine-year-old child fundraising hero, and his family by inviting them to a private garden party at Buckingham Palace.
Tony, who is affectionately referred to as Kate Middleton’s “best friend,” has met the Princess of Wales several times.
Princess Kate, currently battling cancer, has often praised Tony for his remarkable efforts in helping others despite suffering life-changing injuries from horrific child abuse as a baby.
Tony’s adoptive mother, Paula Hudgell, described the invitation to the palace as an “honour.” She said, “It was an experience we would never have dreamed of.”
She added that Tony chatted with Queen Camilla as if they were old friends, making the moment exceptionally proud when the Queen awarded Tony his British Empire Medal (BEM).
Paula thanked everyone involved, stating it was one of the most memorable days they would ever have.
According to a palace insider, Princess Kate had also planned to meet Tony. The insider noted, “Princess Kate is really impressed with the little boy’s courage and his efforts to devote his life to others at such a young age.”
Tony has been raising money for charity since the age of five, inspired by Captain Tom Moore’s fundraising efforts.
He walked 10 km in June 2020 to raise funds and has since raised an incredible £1.8 million for the Evelina London Children’s Hospital, where he received treatment.
He was the youngest-ever recipient of a New Year Honour for services to the prevention of child abuse and has also received the Pride of Britain Award and UK Points of Light award.
In addition to Tony’s story, the garden party also honored other young heroes, including brain tumor patient Layla O’Donovan.
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Layla’s father shared that his 11-year-old daughter was thrilled to meet Queen Camilla after missing the original garden party.
He said, “Lyla was gutted about missing the original garden party, but she said she’s glad she missed it now as she’s got to meet The Queen, and there’s no one else more important than her, apart from The King of course.”
Layla’s father described the event as “an amazing moment for us as a family,” especially given Layla’s recent health struggles, including frequent seizures.
He emphasized the importance of cherishing every experience, saying, “For us to come and have an experience like this was incredible, and Lyla loved every second of our trip.”
This touching event underscores the resilience and courage of young heroes like Tony and Layla, and the supportive role of the royal family in recognizing and celebrating their efforts.
