Emotional reunion for the Duchess of Edinburgh

The Duchess of Edinburgh had an emotional reunion at her latest engagement.

Sophie had just arrived for a special event in London marking the 60th anniversary of the health charity, Wellbeing of Women, when she bumped into someone who played a major role in her family’s life.

The Duchess found herself face to face with Sir Marcus Setchell, the former Surgeon-Gynaecologist to Queen Elizabeth II. Sir Marcus delivered both of the Duchess of Edinburgh’s children, Lady Louise and James, Earl of Wessex.

As they shook hands, their host told them they didn’t really need an introduction to which Sophie jokingly replied ”not really!” before greeting Sir Marcus warmly. The two later chatted happily at the reception.

Sir Marcus oversaw one of the most difficult moments of the Duchess of Edinburgh’s life. During the last stages of her pregnancy with Lady Louise, Sophie had a sudden placental abruption which led to an emergency Caesarean section as both mother and baby were at risk.

Women’s health was the focus of the evening as the charity reached its milestone birthday. Wellbeing of Women was set up in 1964 to promote and support all areas of women and girl’s health to change lives and ensure parity of care. Since then, it has invested over £75 million in research that has led to innovations that many women and girls use today.

The Chair of Wellbeing of Women, Dame Lesley Regan, said ” I think there will be virtually no one in this room that hasn’t been affected by the research that Wellbeing of Women has funded over the years.” 

The reception was held to celebrate the contribution of volunteers to the charity and during the 60th anniversary party, hosted by PwC, Sophie met many of those who have supported it across six decades.

The Duchess of Edinburgh is the patron of Wellbeing of Women.