Zahlia Maroney received an unforgettable birthday treat when the Duke and Duchess of Sussex made a surprise visit to an Invictus Games family and friends' activity as part of Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025.
The couple spent quality time with the children of the Invictus Games family and friends' contingent, with the Duchess delighting the kids by reading children's stories and joining in some colouring activities. Among the excited children was birthday girl Zahlia, who was overjoyed not just by the royal visit but also by meeting an unexpected guest - Edward the therapy rabbit.
"Meghan was watching me draw some pictures with my siblings," Zahlia said.
"They (the Duke and Duchess of Sussex) said happy birthday to me."
"And what do you think of the bunny?" Zahlia was asked, while wearing a party hat to mark her birthday. With a bright smile, she replied, "I like it."
Then asked if she would like a bunny of her own, she cheerfully added, "Yeah, I want to have a bunny of my own when I grow up."
Zahlia, celebrating her 7th birthday, described the surprise with wide-eyed excitement: "My mum didn't tell me until I saw [the bunny]. It was very exciting."
Her birthday festivities didn't stop there. She was looking forward to going ice skating in frosty Vancouver later in the day.
Edward, the therapy rabbit who stole the show alongside the Duke and Dutchess of Sussex, has been a comforting presence for many. His owner, Tiffany Fok, said he visits the BC Children's Hospital.
"He's about three years old and has been doing this since he was about one. I've been doing this for probably about 12 years and Edward has kind of carried the legacy on," she said.
Ms Fok shared her motivation for bringing Edward to the Invictus Games event.
"There are some birthdays today, and animals are just really great with different situations; calming people down and bringing something special," she said.
"I got involved with Invictus Games because my husband's a veteran. He served for 12 years, and this is just something very special and meaningful."
Adding to the day's special moments, Gary Christie, another proud parent at the event, was also celebrating his birthday.
"I'm 64 today, sharing it with Zahlia," he said with a chuckle. Mr Christie was there to support his son Jake, an Invictus Games competitor.
"Jake's playing basketball at 9.30am, and then we might head up to the suspension bridge," he shared.
Mr Christie reflected on Jake's journey through the Warrior Games to Invictus.
"He's been inspired ever since he applied; really focused on his recovery with diet, gym and overall fitness."
As the Invictus Games continue to inspire resilience and camaraderie, it's clear that for Zahlia and her family, this birthday will be one to remember - filled with surprises, fluffy friends and the unbreakable spirit of the Games.
