In March 2024, the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, took to Instagram to share that she was diagnosed with cancer.
Middleton was pictured sitting on a park bench outside, thanking the public for their support and explaining that the delay in publicly speaking about her health was to give George, Charlotte and Louis appropriate time to process the devastating news.
“This of course came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family,” she said.
This announcement followed Kate’s unusually long absence from public life, which she has only just returned to, since “turning a corner” with her treatment.
A source close to the princess told the publication, “It has been a great relief that she is tolerating the medication and is actually doing a lot better. It has, of course, been a very challenging and worrying time. Everyone has rallied around her—William, her parents, and her sister and brother.”
Most recently, Kate was spotted at Wimbledon with her daughter Charlotte, however the latest news is that we won’t be seeing Kate out and about for a while, with a palace insider claiming that Kate will be retreating as she continues her cancer treatment.
The insider told Vanity Fair that the royals are likely to spend the summer “below the radar” at their country home of Anmer Hall in Norfolk.
Kate’s June Instagram post seemed to support the claim, with the princess writing “I’m looking forward to attending The King’s Birthday Parade this weekend with my family and hope to join a few public engagements over the summer, but equally knowing I am not out of the woods yet.
“I am learning how to be patient, especially with uncertainty. Taking each day as it comes, listening to my body, and allowing myself to take this much needed time to heal.”
How Did Kate Middleton Find Out She Has Cancer?
The Princess explained that when her abdominal surgery was completed in January, her condition was thought to be non-cancerous.
The surgery was successful but following testing, cancer was found to be present in her pathology.
Middleton said that it has taken her some time after the major surgery to recover so that she can start chemotherapy treatment, but also taken them time to explain her health to the children in a way that suits their young ages.
However, ever the stoic optimist, Middleton took the opportunity to assure the public that she is feeling well and leaning on those around her for support when she needs to.
“As I’ve said to them, I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal, in my mind, body and spirits. Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too,” she said.
“We hope that you’ll understand that as a family we’ll need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment,” she added.
The Princess also took the time to acknowledge all those around the world whose lives have been affected by cancer, and thanked the public for their messages of support.
Why Did Prince William Not Sit Beside His Wife During The Announcement?
There was some confusion from royal watchers about Kate Middleton’s Instagram video, specifically why she was sitting alone during this difficult time. Twitter lit up with questions about why Prince William was not beside his wife.
However, in April, a source revealed that it was Kate’s decision to make the announcement on her own.
“It is a message from the princess about her health, and she wanted to personally deliver the message on her own,” a source told People. They added that the prince has been “supporting her throughout.”
“She did it with his full support and advice; [William] joined all the conversations around it,” another source told the Times, adding, “On every level, he wishes she didn’t have to do it. But it was her decision, it wasn’t begrudged, and he fully supported it.”
Another insider told the same publication, “This was her as a strong woman sharing an innately strong message to the nation. She didn’t need anyone sitting next to her. He has been supporting her and the family in the background.”
More power to you Catherine.
When Will Kate Middleton Return To Public Duties?
While Kate has made a brief return to public life, she likely won’t be making many appearances while she continues chemotherapy.
In her June Instagram post, Kate explained how she’s doing.
“I am making good progress, but as anyone going through chemotherapy will know, there are good days and bad days. On those bad days you feel weak, tired and you have to give in to your body resting. But on the good days, when you feel stronger, you want to make the most of feeling well.
“My treatment is ongoing and will be for a few more months. On the days I feel well enough, it is a joy to engage with school life, spend personal time on the things that give me energy and positivity, as well as starting to do a little work from home.”
Author of the upcoming Catherine, the Princess of Wales: A Biography of the Future Queen, Robert Jobson, explained the change in Kate’s schedule to People.
“Before, she used to live her life by the calendar, and now she is living her life, and the calendar comes in after. She will be back, but when you have had an experience like this, it changes your perspective and the order of things.”
We hope Kate is able to have a restful and healing summer.
Watch The Full Video From Kate Middleton Here
Related stories
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
