The world woke up to devastating news today as Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, revealed in a very personal video that she has cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy. Middleton, who has been notably absent from the public eye in recent months, shared the news with her fans through a heartfelt video message. She explained that doctors discovered a cancerous growth in her body following abdominal surgery in January. "The surgery was successful," she said. "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."
The Princess of Wales admitted that coming to terms with the devastating diagnosis was difficult. Describing it as a “huge shock,” she said, “We have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family. As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment.”
Middleton revealed that sharing the news of her diagnosis with her family, especially her children George, Charlotte, and Louis, was particularly challenging. She assured them that she was “going to be okay.”
"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. As I have 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 spirit," she said.
The Princess thanked her husband, Prince William, for his unconditional support, as well as fans and well-wishers for their concern. "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. 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," she said.
Kensington Palace did not provide further details on the type of cancer Middleton was diagnosed with. "We will not be sharing any further private medical information. The Princess has a right to medical privacy, as we all do," a Kensington Palace representative told the media.
The Princess of Wales spent 13 days at the London Clinic following her abdominal surgery before returning to Adelaide Cottage in Windsor to recuperate. Her extended absence from the public sphere had sparked much speculation about her health.
Middleton’s father-in-law, King Charles, issued a statement via Buckingham Palace, praising her for remaining courageous in the face of adversity. "His Majesty is so proud of Catherine for her courage in speaking as she did. Following their time in the hospital together, HM has remained in the closest contact with his beloved daughter-in-law throughout the past weeks. Both Their Majesties (Charles and Queen Camilla) will continue to offer their love and support to the whole family through this difficult time," he said.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle also wished her a speedy recovery through a public statement. "We wish health and healing for Kate and the family, and hope they are able to do so privately and in peace," it read.
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak told AFP, "The Princess of Wales has the love and support of the whole country as she continues her recovery. She has shown tremendous bravery with her statement today. In recent weeks she has been subjected to intense scrutiny and has been unfairly treated by certain sections of the media around the world and on social media. When it comes to matters of health, like everyone else, she must be afforded the privacy to focus on her treatment and be with her loving family."
