The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, made a surprise visit to the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) on Thursday, engaging with young patients and supporting the hospital’s annual “Make March Matter” fundraising campaign. The visit underscores Markle’s continued commitment to children’s welfare and highlights the hospital’s dedication to pediatric healthcare excellence.
Markle’s appearance at CHLA involved creative activities with patients, demonstrating a hands-on approach to providing comfort and support. The hospital shared images of the visit on Instagram, showcasing Markle participating in art projects alongside the children. This engagement builds upon Markle’s previous work with the hospital and her broader philanthropic efforts.
During her visit, Markle first stopped at the hospital’s “Creative Oasis,” where she joined young patients in watercolor painting. Photos released by CHLA show the Duchess, wearing a black mask, laughing with the children as they worked with brushes, paints, and Hello Kitty-themed images. She also spent time with children unable to leave their rooms, ensuring all patients felt included in the activities.
This visit follows Markle’s previous engagement with CHLA in 2024, where she led a “Literally Healing” session, reading books like “Rosie Revere, Engineer” and “Pete the Cat” to patients. According to a hospital statement at the time, the children “laughed and sang” as Markle brought the characters to life with each page. The hospital has consistently praised Markle’s dedication and positive impact on the young patients.
The current visit was part of the annual “Make March Matter” campaign, which brings together celebrities, corporations, and the public to support CHLA’s mission. “Make March Matter unites Celebrities, Companies and the Community to support the hospital’s mission,” CHLA explained in a statement. The goal is to ensure that sick and injured children continue to receive the best possible medical care, research, and innovation – as CHLA has done for 125 years.
Upcoming Travel and Philanthropic Engagements
Markle’s visit to Los Angeles comes during a busy period for both her and Prince Harry. The couple is scheduled to travel to Australia in April – their first joint tour of the country in over seven years. A spokesperson stated that the trip will include “private, business and philanthropic engagements,” though their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, will not be accompanying them.
While in Australia, Markle will also participate in the “Girl’s Weekend” event hosted by the “Her Best Life” podcast. The event, taking place from April 17-19 at the InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach, will feature “meaningful speakers” and a gala dinner with Markle as a guest of honor, described as “an intimate gala experience like no other.”
Markle previously attended the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Gala on October 5, 2024, where she wore a red Carolina Herrera gown, as reported by People Magazine. During the gala, she had a “relatable” moment with another mother, demonstrating her connection with parents navigating the challenges of raising children.
As Markle continues her philanthropic work and prepares for her trip to Australia, her commitment to supporting children’s health and well-being remains a central focus. The upcoming engagements signal a continued dedication to both personal and charitable pursuits.
What comes next for the Duchess of Sussex involves balancing her philanthropic commitments with her family life and upcoming travel plans. Her continued involvement with organizations like CHLA underscores her dedication to making a positive impact on communities both locally and globally.
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