Princess Diana's Former Top Aide Helps Create 'Tranquil' Space at Children's Hospice in Her Honor (Exclusive)

Mar. 15, 2025

Princess Diana and The Sanctuary at Ty Hafan hospice in Wales.Photo:John Stillwell - PA Images/PA Images via Getty; courtesy ty hafan

John Stillwell - PA Images/PA Images via Getty; courtesy ty hafan

Princess Dianalegacy is being honored in Wales, where she helped create a lasting impact for children with life-limiting conditions.

TheTŷ Hafanchildren’s hospice, located near Cardiff, has unveiled a newly renovated area to offer comfort to families, thanks to a generousdonation of around $122,000from Diana’s former aide, Patrick Jephson.

The donation was used to refurbish The Sanctuary, a non-denominational space for reflection and contemplation for families and caregivers at the hospice. On Oct. 16, the newly renovated space was officially unveiled to supporters.

Jephson, who served in a role akin to chief of staff for Princess Diana for eight years until 1996 and now resides in Washington, D.C., couldn’t attend the event, explaining he’s “been in the repair shop,” as he puts it. However, he tells PEOPLE, “I don’t feel an ocean away. One of many wonderful things about the work of Tŷ Hafan is that it reminds us every day that neither distance nor time can put any limit on love."

Patrick Jephson with the late Princess Diana.Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images

Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images

He adds that one of his “most enduring” memories of Diana is “her determination to lead from the heart — such as her work with end-of-life care around the world, and children’s hospices in particular.”

Princess Diana at A Concert for Hope that raised money for Ty Hafan.Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty

Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty

The work of Tŷ Hafan, “like the work she did to draw the world’s attention to children with life-shortening conditions and their families, is surely the definition of love in action.”

He and the staff have much to be proud of. At the entrance of The Sanctuary, a plaque honors Diana, positioned beneath an image of her meeting Suzanne Goodall, the founder who first approached the princess for her support.

Mark Lewis/Ty Hafan

Inside the space, the hospice has created a haven of peace. Candles are lit and curved windows create a seamless connection to the recently rejuvenated gardens that envelop the building.

Heather Roberts, the senior play practitioner, played guitar as she had the evening before for families honoring their children. “Families come back for years and years. So many families feel so nurtured here,” she says. “Many say they feel closer to their child here."

Ty Hafan’s supporters and staff viewing the new Sanctuary on Oct. 16, 2024.Mark Lewis/Ty Hafan

Tracy Jones, director of family wellbeing services, tells PEOPLE, “We wanted to create something that felt calm and tranquil and also safe. History and legacy is important to us. When we talk about our founder, Suzanne Goodall, you cannot talk about her without talking about Princess Diana. Without Princess Diana, we would not have the hospice. With the fundraising, she kick-started the hospice."

The new space not only as a place for families to remember their loved ones but also as a vital resource for staff. “A member of staff who might have a challenging day on the care wing can use the space in the same way we encourage families to do.” Chief Executive Irfon Rees says.

Heather Roberts and former charity chief executive Maria Timon Samra at the entrance to The Sanctuary, on Oct. 16, 2024.Mark Lewis/Ty Hafan

“Our care staff develop bonds with these children and their families both in life and death — as long as they need us," Rees says. “And so many staff will find different ways to deal with loss themselves and The Sanctuary is absolutely part of that offer for them.”

They hold “reflective sessions” following a child’s death, allowing colleagues to share memories and celebrate the child’s life. “It allows a beautiful space for that,” Rees adds.

Princess Diana asked Luciano Pavarotti to perform at a concert for Ty Hafan in 1995.Alamy

Alamy

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This year, the hospice has already provided end-of-life care for 40 children. As one of only two children’s centers of its kind in Wales, it supports approximately 300 children with life-shortening conditions and around 3,000 family members annually. Maintaining its vital services for children and young people with life-limiting conditions—and their families—costs $7.8 million each year. This funding ensures the hospice can assist families both at its facility in Sully and in homes and community settings across Wales.

source: people.com