Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace Release Statements
Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace made global headlines on January 17 last year, announcing that both King Charles and Princess Kate Middleton had been hospitalized. The royal offices initially withheld details about their conditions, but it was later revealed that both the 76-year-old monarch and the 43-year-old Princess of Wales were receiving treatment for an unspecified type of cancer.
On January 17, 2024, Kensington Palace shared that Princess Catherine had undergone "planned abdominal surgery" the day before. This announcement came just a week after her 42nd birthday on January 9.
“Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales was admitted to hospital yesterday for planned abdominal surgery,” the palace stated.
King Charles publicly expressed his unwavering support for his daughter-in-law, stating, "I am so proud of Kate Middleton for her courage."
The statement continued, “The surgery was successful, and it is expected that she will remain in hospital for 10 to 14 days before returning home to continue her recovery. Based on current medical advice, she is unlikely to resume public duties until after Easter.”
Later that same day, Buckingham Palace issued its own announcement, revealing that King Charles was also undergoing medical treatment. “His Majesty’s condition is benign, and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure,” the palace said.
On February 5, Buckingham Palace provided further clarity, confirming that during the King’s procedure, a form of cancer had been discovered. However, the palace has remained tight-lipped about the specific type of cancer.
Princess Kate’s prolonged absence from public life and royal duties sparked widespread speculation and fueled false conspiracy theories on social media. In response, Kensington Palace clarified her recovery timeline, emphasizing that updates would only be shared when necessary.
On March 22, the Princess of Wales addressed the public directly in an emotional video message. She confirmed her cancer diagnosis, saying: “In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London, and at the time, it was thought that my condition was noncancerous. However, tests after the operation revealed that cancer had been present.”
By September, Kate shared another update via a heartfelt video, announcing that she had completed chemotherapy. “Although I have finished chemotherapy, my path to healing and full recovery is long, and I must continue to take each day as it comes,” she said.
Earlier this month, Kate Middleton delivered more uplifting news. During a visit to the hospital where she had been treated, she announced that she was in remission. This marked a significant milestone in her recovery journey.
Meanwhile, King Charles’ treatment continues into 2025. Despite progress in his health, the King is expected to undergo additional procedures. Nonetheless, he remains committed to his royal duties and is scheduled to undertake a range of public engagements both in the UK and internationally throughout the year.
