As a royal photographer, Chris Jackson has captured many moving moments over the years – but one from the Princess of Wales' first public visit to London's The Royal Marsden Hospital stands out as particularly "poignant", as he revealed on the latest episode of Best Quality Designer Handbag 's podcast.
Kate, 44, was privately treated at the hospital in 2024 when she received chemotherapy, and later returned when she was in remission in January 2025 to thank staff for their "exceptional" care.
Speaking on A Right Royal Podcast, Chris reflected on a moment that struck him at the time – and that eager royal fans may have missed.
Chris described how Kate returned to The Royal Marsden, where staff lined the corridors to catch a glimpse of her. "They were super excited to see her," he said.
"They were all packed in like sardines, really excited to see her. There was a particular lady on the way who gave her a big hug and she chatted to a few really lovely patients who were going through their own journey. And she was listening to everything they had to say."
Returning as a person in remission must have taken on a different meaning for her, Chris explained, before highlighting one especially emotional moment: "As she arrived at the hospital, I really won't forget that moment, just for a fleeting second, she glanced up at the sign on the door, and it must have brought back some memories of the experience that she'd had during her stay."
© Getty ImagesHe continued: "So, it was a really meaningful engagement. And actually, I think everyone came away with a positive feeling afterwards and more of an understanding because obviously she'd been on her own journey."
To hear the full conversation, watch the latest episode of HELLO!'s A Right Royal Podcast, which is out now. Chris Jackson's book, Modern Majesty: The British Royal Family in a New Era, is also out now.
