Queen Elizabeth II Kicks Off St. Patrick's Day Early — Hours After Her Husband Prince Philip Was Released From Hospital
Mar. 16 2021, Published 2:16 p.m. ET
Queen Elizabeth II shared an early message on Tuesday, March 16, in honor of St. Patrick's Day — the same day her husband, Prince Philip, was released from the hospital.
"Ahead of #StPatricksDay tomorrow, The Queen has sent her best wishes to the people of Ireland," The Royal Family Instagram account captioned a photo of the 94-year-old with the President of Ireland.
“On the occasion of your National Day, I would like to convey to Your Excellency my congratulations, together with my best wishes to the people of Ireland," the message continued. "This year marks ten years since my visit to Ireland, which I remember fondly, and it marks a significant centenary across these islands. We share ties of family, friendship and affection – the foundation of our partnership that remains as important today as ten years ago. ‘Lá Fhéile Pádraig sona daoibh go léir.’ 📷Her Majesty is pictured with the President of Ireland and during her historic visit to Ireland in 2011."
Of course, fans loved the Queen's shout-out in honor of the international holiday. One person wrote, "So proud of both our Queen and Ireland🇮🇪 💚🤍🧡," while another echoed, "😍😍😍We Love the royal family 😍😍."
A third user added, "😍♥️So cute!!!😍♥️🌹♥️😍."
Earlier in the day, Philip, 99, was spotted leaving the hospital after a 28-day stay.
"The Duke of Edinburgh has today been discharged from King Edward VII's Hospital and has returned to Windsor Castle, following treatment for an infection and a successful procedure for a pre-existing condition," Buckingham Palace said in a statement.
"His Royal Highness wishes to thank all the medical staff who looked after him at both King Edward VII's Hospital and St Bartholomew's Hospital, and everyone who has sent their good wishes," they added.
The Duke is "in good spirits," an insider revealed after he was discharged.
Philip was taken home to Windsor Castle — where he lives with the Queen. Despite dealing with the aftermath of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's tell-all interview, she has been keeping busy and trying to remain upbeat.
"It's a lot to take on. But as usual, Elizabeth is handling the stress and sadness with great dignity," an insider said, adding that Prince William, Duchess Kate and the rest of the family have been "rallying around her."
