In these trying times, the heroes of a global public health crisis are all the workers trying to prevent the pandemic from raising the statistics of deaths. To boost their morale and to show appreciation for their service, Prince William and Kate Middleton visited a health facility in London last Thursday, March 19.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge met and talked to some of the staff of the NHS 111 call centre in South London. Prince William told them that they represent "the very best of our country and society." On behalf of his grandmother and the royal family, the second in line to throne also praised the workers and extended his gratitude for what they contribute.
In a speech, Prince William said that these health workers come from different backgrounds with different experiences and skills. They pull together for the greater good of the public and it's this kind of crisis that the public realizes the value of the National Health System, the royal remarked.
The duke also encouraged the people to stay at home so that they can protect the most vulnerable and stop the spread of the virus. He also reminded those presenting symptoms to avoid non-essential meetings and contacts.
Prince William and Kate are following the guidelines of the government by making a conscious effort to distance themselves from the crowd. The Cambridge couple are not shaking hands and they've been seen using hand sanitizers a few times during this visit.
According to Hello!, one of the NHS staff forgot the rules about social distancing and reached out her hand to the royals. Prince William laughed and reminded her about it. The Cambridges also had a photo opportunity with the people while still practicing social distancing.
A staff who takes emergency calls remarked that Prince William seems to be nostalgic about the time he worked as an ambulance pilot for the East Anglian Air Ambulance. The London Ambulance Service chief also said that Prince William is welcome anytime if he would like to resume flying and be in the frontlines of an emergency situation.
One call centre handler told Prince William that she met him at Buckingham Palace when he was just a baby. He asked if she could remember if he was a behaved kid and she kidded that she cannot say anything since there are press people present.
Meanwhile, the duchess was heard telling some of the staff that they are doing a great job. She said that the health care workers are the support system of the people.
