The Duchess of Edinburgh attended a special charity event on Monday, marking the 60th anniversary of Wellbeing of Women at PwC’s offices in London.
In her role as patron of the women’s health charity, Sophie met with volunteers and thanked them for their dedicated support over the years.
A notable moment came when the Duchess was introduced to Sir Marcus Setchell, the former Surgeon-Gynaecologist to Queen Elizabeth II, who delivered both of Sophie’s children and Princess Kate’s eldest son, Prince George.
The pair shared a light-hearted exchange when told they didn’t need an introduction, with the Duchess quipping: “Not really!”
The Duchess of Edinburgh attended a special charity event on Monday, marking the 60th anniversary of Wellbeing of Women at PwC’s offices in London.
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Since its founding in 1964, Wellbeing of Women has invested more than £75 million into vital research projects, leading to significant medical innovations in women’s health.
The charity has achieved remarkable breakthroughs, including helping millions of babies survive worldwide and pioneering gynaecological cancer prevention and treatment.
Their work has also transformed understanding and treatment options for heavy and painful periods.
Professor Dame Lesley Regan, Chair of Wellbeing of Women, said: “Wellbeing of Women has pioneered life changing advances in women’s health over 60 years by funding research into new treatments that save and change lives, influencing policies and best practices across the globe.”
Sir Marcus Setchell delivered Sophie’s two children Louise and James.
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However, she noted that women’s health remains “critically underfunded.”
During the event, the Duchess demonstrated her cake-cutting skills, helping to slice a commemorative ’60’ cake adorned with macarons, gold leaf, blackberries and figs.
“I made that look so easy,” Sophie remarked, drawing laughter from those present.
Dame Lesley Regan addressed attendees, expressing pride in the charity’s accomplishments.
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Sophie became patron of Wellbeing of Women in May 2021.
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She said: “We’re all rather proud of what we’ve achieved.
“We hadn’t realised it had been quite so extensive and I think there will be virtually no one in this room that hasn’t been affected by the research that Wellbeing of Women has funded over the years.”
The charity’s volunteers were particularly celebrated, with some having undertaken remarkable fundraising challenges, including spending 59 days solo at sea.
Sophie became patron of Wellbeing of Women in May 2021, following in the footsteps of Diana, Princess of Wales, who supported the charity during the 1980s.
The Duchess of Edinburgh said regarding the position in 2021: “I’m delighted to take on this role. I have a vested interest in it.”