In 2025, Princess Catherine’s cancer diagnosis stunned the public when she bravely shared the news. Since then, Royal Watchers have been captivated by her journey, though some have pushed the boundaries in their pursuit of details. Throughout it all, Catherine has kept the public informed with updates, made public appearances, and assured everyone that she is committed to her royal duties as the future Queen. Her cancer timeline sheds light on the hardships she's faced and the reasons behind her optimism.
As we reported in September, Catherine revealed that her treatment had concluded. However, it wasn't until January 14th that she delivered the uplifting news—she is officially in remission. "Remission" is a term commonly used in the context of cancer. It signifies that there is no detectable sign of cancer after treatment. Remission can be complete, partial, or stable. Complete remission means that cancer is undetectable through scans, X-rays, or blood tests. Partial remission indicates that while chemotherapy has destroyed some cancer cells, it hasn’t eradicated all of them. Stable disease means the cancer has not grown or shrunk significantly.
During a visit to the Royal Marsden, Catherine shared personal details about her chemotherapy treatment, which was undeniably difficult. While speaking to Catherine Field, who was wearing a cold cap to preserve her hair, Catherine gestured to her chest and arm, explaining the port mechanism used to deliver the chemotherapy drugs. She joked, saying she had grown so attached to the port, even hesitating when she was told it could be removed.
As an oncology nurse, it’s worth noting there are several reasons why Catherine may still have her hair. First, one type of chemotherapy she underwent doesn’t cause hair loss. Second, she used a cold cap, though it’s not guaranteed to completely prevent hair loss—it works well for some but may still result in some shedding. Lastly, it’s possible that Catherine could be wearing a wig, as advancements in wig technology have made them look incredibly natural, particularly those made from real hair, often donated by others.
Achieving remission is a significant milestone for many cancer patients, though it doesn’t always mean that the cancer is fully cured. The likelihood of recurrence depends on various factors, such as the type and stage of cancer, as well as the treatments used. Without knowing specific details about Catherine’s diagnosis, it's hard to predict the risk of recurrence. However, it’s important to note that remission doesn’t eliminate the possibility of latent cancer cells becoming active again over time. Remission can last for months or even years, and ongoing check-ups and tests are common for patients to monitor for any signs of recurrence.
Though Catherine hasn’t publicly shared her next steps, it's likely she’ll undergo periodic exams with her oncologists to ensure the cancer doesn't return. Some cancers are more prone to relapse than others, and if the disease does come back, it could necessitate further treatment, such as chemotherapy. Regardless of what the future holds, her announcement serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and hope that those battling cancer carry with them.
Catherine’s journey not only helps her own health but also provides inspiration for others on their path to recovery. In addition to her health updates, the princess recently made headlines for her humorous exchange with staff during a visit to the Royal Marsden. On January 9th, the same day she celebrated her 43rd birthday, Catherine delighted both staff and patients with her lighthearted humor. She jokingly remarked on the joyful atmosphere, saying, "Hi fabulous, is this what happens normally?" as the hospital workers cheered her on. Her playful comment sparked laughter among the crowd, with many capturing the moment on their phones.
This visit occurred amid reports that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Montecito mansion is on evacuation alert due to nearby wildfires. Meanwhile, the Sussexes’ Archewell Foundation has contributed to the Altadena Girls Fire Recovery Fund, aiding local teenage girls affected by the disaster. Their charity statement read, “We’re gathering essential items like clothes, beauty products, and hair care—everyday necessities that help these teens feel like themselves again.”
Catherine's journey continues to inspire not only her supporters but also those facing their own challenges. Her courage and determination serve as a testament to the power of resilience in the face of adversity.
