Michelle Beaver Reflects on Meeting the King Twice, Sharing a Memorable Handshake and Moment of Connection
Michelle Beaver, a 50-year-old nurse from Liverpool, has shared her fond memories of meeting King Charles on two separate occasions, describing him as “extremely charming” and recalling the warmth of their interactions. Her encounters with the King, which took place in 2019, left her with a lasting impression and a deep sense of happiness.
Beaver, who works as a cardiology nurse and has dedicated over ten years to volunteering and fundraising for the Marie Curie Hospice in Liverpool, first met Charles during a visit to the hospice in February 2019. It was the 60th anniversary of the hospice, and Charles came to personally thank the staff for their ongoing work.
“I was just standing there with the nurses when he came over to greet us,” Beaver recalled. “He shook our hands, and I couldn’t help but notice how large his hands were. He was so gracious, making sure to look everyone in the eye with a warm smile. It was such a lovely moment, and he made me feel really appreciated for the work we were doing.”
Beaver was also moved by the personal connection she felt, remembering how her grandmother, who had passed away in 2013, always made sure the family gathered to watch the Queen’s Speech on Christmas Day. “It felt like a family moment,” she said. “I couldn’t help but think of my grandma and how proud she would have been.”
A few months later, Beaver met Charles again at a Buckingham Palace garden party in May. Although initially sceptical that the invitation was truly meant for her, she attended with her husband, Peter, and was pleasantly surprised to be reunited with the then-Prince of Wales.
“I was standing in line when Charles came over,” Beaver said. “I said, ‘Do you remember me? We met at the hospice,’ and he laughed, saying, ‘Oh, I don’t remember what I did yesterday!’”
Despite the light-hearted moment, Beaver felt that Charles was deeply engaged with the people he met, making each interaction meaningful. She went on to praise the King for his efforts since ascending the throne. “He’s been doing an absolutely amazing job,” she said. “Grieving for your mother in such a public way must be incredibly difficult, but he is showing up and carrying out his duties with strength and grace.”