The Princess of Wales has announced she is in the early stages of treatment following a cancer diagnosis.
Catherine shared in a video message how the diagnosis came as a “huge shock” after enduring an “incredibly tough couple of months.” She conveyed a hopeful outlook, stating, “I am well and becoming stronger every day.”
While the specifics of the cancer remain undisclosed, Kensington Palace expressed confidence in the princess’s full recovery.
Catherine revealed that her January abdominal surgery unexpectedly led to the discovery of cancer.
“However, tests after the operation found that cancer had been present. Therefore, my medical team advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy, and I am now in the early stages of that treatment,” said the princess.
The chemotherapy treatment began in late February, with the palace deciding against sharing further private medical details, including the cancer type.
At 42, the princess expressed her thoughts for all those touched by cancer, stating, “For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone.”
Catherine discussed her post-surgery recovery process and the importance of supporting her family during this time.
“William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family.”
She added, “It has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte, and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them and to reassure them that I am going to be okay.”
The princess said the family is now asking for “some time, space, and privacy.”
The King and Queen Consort were briefed about the princess’s health before the public announcement. King Charles has also been receiving cancer treatment.
Both King Charles and Catherine received treatment at the London Clinic, where Catherine underwent her surgery, and the King was treated for a prostate condition.
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said the King was “so proud of Catherine for her courage in speaking as she did.”
Since their time in hospital, he has “remained in the closest contact with his beloved daughter-in-law throughout the past weeks.”
Prince Harry and Meghan sent a message stating, “We wish health and healing for Kate and the family, and hope they are able to do so privately and in peace.”
Catherine and Prince William are expected to step back from joining the Royal Family for Easter Sunday, with no immediate return to official duties planned for the princess.
Prince William’s recent absence from a memorial service was due to the revelation of Catherine’s diagnosis.
The couple has been the subject of widespread speculation and social media discussion regarding Catherine’s health since her January surgery, with her last public appearance being at Christmas.
In her video message, she talked about the support she’s received from her family, noting, “Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance, too.
“As is the love, support, and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both.”
The palace has issued requests for privacy following extensive rumors and unfounded theories concerning the couple.
Speculation reached a peak following photo agencies’ retraction of a Mother’s Day image of the princess on 10 March due to digital editing concerns, for which the princess later expressed regret.
Speculation also arose from social media regarding video clips that captured Prince William and Catherine on a shopping trip in Windsor earlier in the week.
