Prince Harry praises sick children for extraordinary courage and joy at the 2026 WellChild Awards in London

Prince Harry has once again shown his admiration for young people facing serious illnesses, praising their resilience, humour, and “extraordinary joy for living” as he launched the 2026 WellChild Awards.

The awards, hosted by the charity WellChild, honour children with complex medical needs as well as the carers, parents, and siblings who support them every day.

Recognising Courage and Joy Amid Challenges

Speaking ahead of the ceremony, the Duke of Sussex reflected on the inspiration he draws from the children he meets through the awards.

“These children and young people are living with challenges that most of us can barely imagine,” he said.

“Yet time and again, they meet life with positivity, courage, humour, and an extraordinary joy for living.

In their smiles, their determination, and their kindness, they show us what strength truly looks like.”

Harry highlighted that the WellChild Awards aren’t just about the children themselves.

“It’s about celebrating the siblings who often put their own needs aside to care for a brother or sister.

And, of course, it’s about honouring the parents, the carers, the nurses, and professionals who give so much of themselves every single day with dedication, love, and compassion,” he added.

Inviting the Public to Nominate Heroes

As part of the launch, Harry encouraged the public to nominate children or carers for this year’s awards.

Nominations are open until midnight on March 16, with the aim of finding the UK’s “most courageous” children to celebrate in 2026.

The call reflects the charity’s mission to highlight extraordinary achievements and recognise the hard work and dedication of both young patients and those who support them.

A Day of Joy After a Solemn Tribute

The Duke of Sussex’s day began on a reflective note with a private visit to St George’s Chapel in Windsor to pay his respects to his late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, marking the third anniversary of her passing.

Later, the mood lifted as he attended the WellChild Awards at the Royal Lancaster hotel in London, celebrating the event’s 21st anniversary—an occasion he has long supported.

During the ceremony, Harry was seen fully engaging with the children and families.

In a heartwarming moment, he playfully jousted with balloon swords alongside nine-year-old Gwen, who proudly showed off her sparkling trainers.

Gwen also presented special gifts for Harry’s children, Archie and Lilibet—personalised football shirts in purple with their names and ages.

Harry expressed his delight, saying the gifts were “so good” and that he couldn’t wait to bring them back to California.

A Tradition of Celebrating Inspiration

The WellChild Awards were founded in 2005 in association with GSK and have grown into a national event celebrating the courage and achievements of children living with serious medical conditions.

Last year, Harry charmed attendees with similar playful interactions, showing the lighthearted yet heartfelt side of these meaningful celebrations.

What’s Next?

With nominations open until March 16, the WellChild Awards are inviting the public to help spotlight the children and carers whose stories inspire a nation.

This year promises more touching moments, laughter, and recognition for those who navigate extraordinary challenges every day.

Summary

Prince Harry has launched the 2026 WellChild Awards, celebrating children with serious illnesses, their families, and carers.

The Duke praised their courage, positivity, and joy, encouraging public nominations by March 16.

Following a solemn visit to Queen Elizabeth II’s resting place, Harry joined the joyful ceremony at the Royal Lancaster hotel, interacting warmly with families and playing balloon sword games with young attendees.

The awards, now in their 21st year, continue to honour resilience, kindness, and dedication in the face of life’s toughest challenges.