Teen photographer who inspired Kate Middleton dies from cancer aged 17

Teenage Photographer Dies After Battling Cancer

Liz Hatton, a 17-year-old aspiring photographer who captured the attention of Kate Middleton, has tragically passed away after a courageous fight against a rare form of cancer. Liz was diagnosed with desmoplastic small round cell tumour, a condition with only 12 cases diagnosed annually, and was given a challenging prognosis of six months to three years to live. Despite the grim outlook, Liz demonstrated remarkable bravery and creativity throughout her journey.

The young photographer’s mother, Vicky Robayna, shared heartfelt words about her daughter’s remarkable spirit, describing Liz as an “incredible daughter” who displayed kindness, empathy, and courage until the very end. Vicky expressed the profound loss felt by the family, stating, “There is now a gaping Liz-shaped hole in our lives that I am not sure how we will ever fill.” Liz’s determination and passion for photography were evident in her pursuit of a photography bucket list, which included milestones such as having her work published in magazines and photographing behind the scenes at prestigious events.

Liz’s encounters with royalty, including a hug from the Princess of Wales and tea with the Royal couple, added to her inspiring journey as a budding photographer. Despite her health challenges, Liz continued to chase her dreams, attending events like the premiere of “Venom: The Last Dance” and the Royal Variety Show to capture moments through her lens. Her dedication to her craft and unwavering spirit touched the lives of many who supported her in fulfilling her aspirations.

In a bid to honour Liz’s memory and support research into desmoplastic small round cell tumour, for which there is no dedicated charity in the UK, Vicky has initiated a fundraising campaign with a target of £100,000. The fundraising effort aims to carry forward Liz’s legacy and contribute to advancing knowledge and treatment of this rare cancer. Both Kate Middleton and Prince William expressed their admiration for Liz’s talent and resilience, highlighting the impact she had on those around her.

Liz’s remarkable journey as a photographer exemplifies the power of passion, perseverance, and creativity in the face of adversity. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of pursuing one’s dreams and leaving a meaningful legacy, no matter the challenges encountered along the way. Liz’s photography, characterized by sophistication and insight, continues to inspire and uplift those who resonate with her artistry and spirit.

In conclusion, Liz Hatton’s indomitable spirit and artistic vision have left an enduring mark on the world of photography and beyond. Her courage in the face of adversity and her determination to follow her passion serve as a beacon of inspiration for all who knew her and for those who now carry her legacy forward. Liz’s journey reminds us of the transformative power of art, resilience, and unwavering faith in the face of life’s uncertainties. May her memory continue to shine brightly through the lens of her captured moments and the hearts she touched along the way.