On Friday, Catherine, Princess of Wales, disclosed that she has been diagnosed with cancer and is currently undergoing treatment in the early stages.
In a video statement shared on social media, Kate, as she is commonly known, expressed her diagnosis as a significant surprise.
This announcement follows her temporary withdrawal from public engagements two months ago, when Kensington Palace announced her undergoing surgery for a non-cancerous abdominal condition.
“In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous,” said Catherine, 42, who is married to the heir to the British throne, Prince William.
“The surgery was successful. However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present. My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment.”
Catherine, Princess of Wales, during a portage session for her ‘Shaping Us’ campaign on early childhood, taken on September 27, 2023, in Sittingbourne, England.
Kate continued that “William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family.”
The princess added, “As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment. But, most importantly, 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 ok.”
Kate said that she had told them she is “well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits.”
She expressed gratitude to Prince William for his unwavering support, describing him as a constant source of comfort and reassurance throughout her journey. Additionally, she acknowledged the overwhelming support from the public during this challenging time.
“We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment. My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to being back when I am able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery,” the princess said.
She ended her heartfelt message by saying that she was also keeping “all those whose lives have been affected by cancer” in her thoughts.
“For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone,” Kate concluded in the video statement, which was filmed by BBC Studios at Windsor on Wednesday.