The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton 42, who underwent abdominal surgery on Jan. 16, shared a personal video message revealing the news that she is battling cancer.
According to PEOPLE she shared her health news on Friday in a personal video message, which comes after Kensington Palace announced on Jan. 17 that Princess Kate had undergone a “planned abdominal surgery” the previous day.
At the time, it was understood that the issue was non-cancerous, but post-operative tests “found cancer had been present.”
The type of cancer was not revealed. A Kensington Palace spokesperson says,
“We will not be sharing any further private medical information. The Princess has a right to medical privacy, as we all do.”
In her emotional video, Princess Kate started by thanking well-wishers for their “wonderful messages of support” amid her recovery during what has been “an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family.”
“In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London, and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous,” she said. “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.”
Calling the news a “huge shock,” Kate said that she and Prince William
“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.”
“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,” she said referring to her three children: Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 8, and Prince Louis, 5. “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 spirits.”
View this post on Instagram
The Princess of Wales continued,
“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.”
“At this time, I am also thinking of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer. For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope,” she concluded. “You are not alone.”
Princess Kate spent 13 days at The London Clinic following her abdominal surgery before returning home to Adelaide Cottage in Windsor to continue her recovery.
Her extended time out of the public eye led to conspiracy theories and rumors circulating online about her health and whereabouts, which came to a fever pitch when a photo that was shared to mark Mother’s Day in the U.K. was pulled by agencies due to suspicions of manipulation.
Kate issued a statement where she said she does “occasionally experiment with editing” and apologized for “any confusion” over the picture.
A palace spokesperson says Princess Kate started the course of preventative chemotherapy in late February.
Regarding her return to public duties, the spokesperson says,
“The Princess will return to official duties when she is cleared to do so by her medical team. She is in good spirits and is focused on making a full recovery.”
Meanwhile, Prince William “will continue to balance supporting his wife and family and maintaining his official duties as he has done since the start of the year.” The Prince of Wales is expected to spend time with his family during his children’s Easter break from school in early April before returning to royal engagements.
The news of Princess Kate’s diagnosis comes just weeks after her father-in-law King Charles announced on Feb. 5 that he was undergoing treatment for cancer.
“During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer,” the palace said in a statement. “His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties. Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake state business and official paperwork as usual.”
Although she’s largely remained out of the public eye amid her recovery, Kate has been spotted in public a few times.
Over the weekend, Princess Kate and Prince William were filmed by a local resident while shopping in Windsor.
Princess Kate made her last official public appearance at the end of 2023 when she joined members of the royal family for their traditional Christmas church outing in Norfolk.
The fact Princess Kate has to do this over a video just shows how far conspiracies have gone, no one would believe she has cancer otherwise
Her world has turned upside down & she’s being forced to put out a video looking her best.
Get well soon Kate ???? pic.twitter.com/xjy2nxMXWL
— Kayla Adams (@KaylaAdams___) March 22, 2024
and
Princess Kate addressing rumors in a video shows how intense speculation has become. Despite facing personal challenges, she puts on a brave face for the public. I wish her and her family well.pic.twitter.com/IsXfj7jts3
— Trevor Donovan (@TrevDon) March 22, 2024
and
Weeks of speculation and constant gossip and Princess Kate is dealing with having Cancer. Honestly if people don’t learn from this to give people their space and privacy I don’t know!! Wishing her a speedy recovery. ♥️
— Judi Love (Blue Tick) ???? (@1Judilove) March 22, 2024
and
Prayers up for Princess Kate.
It’s really unfortunate that the Crown made this such an unnecessary spectacle with doctored photos and faked appearances.
They fed the rumor mill when they didn’t have to.
— Candice Marie Benbow (@CandiceBenbow) March 22, 2024
