After about two months of speculation, Kate Middleton released a video update on last Friday, an update regarding her health. The video message was recorded on Wednesday but released on Friday. It was the first official update since January when Kate was hospitalized.
Kate said, “In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous.”
She went on to add, “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.”
Kate stated this diagnosis to be a “huge shock”.
“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 my three children George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be OK.”
“We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment,” she explained.
“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.”
Kate asked for space and privacy. She didn’t reveal what type of cancer she had been diagnosed with.
Kate, 42, underwent an abdominal surgery on January 16. She was discharged from the hospital, London Clinic, on January 29. It is a coincidence that King Charles was discharged from the same hospital on the same day. Although the officials did not disclose as to what king of surgery it was, they said that her condition was not cancerous. They had further stated that Kate was unlikely to return to public life until March 31.
Since her discharge from the hospital, speculations triggered about princess’s recovery, Kate’s health and location. She made her first public appearance on March 4. She was spotted in Windsor, seated in the front passenger seat of a car driven by her mother, Carole Middleton. Amid a social media frenzy, the speculation continued to grow. Kate and William published an official photograph of her and her three children on Mother’s Day – celebrated on March 10 in the UK. The photograph appeared to have been manipulated. The same was admitted by Kate when she said, “Like many amateur photographers, I do occasionally experiment with editing. I wanted to express my apologies for any confusion the family photograph we shared yesterday caused. I hope everyone celebrating had a very happy Mother’s Day. C
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) March 11, 2024
“There is also an issue with the public relations and communications team, which has badly let you down. Your team has thrown you under the bus, Princess of Wales, and you are taking the blame,” Afua Hagan, journalist and royal commentator, told Al Jazeera.
It is not known what kind of treatment Kate is undergoing.
Estranged from William and Kate since their move to California in 2020. Prince Harry and his wife Meghan wished the princess well.
“We wish health and healing for Kate and the family, and hope they are able to do so privately and in peace,” they said in a statement.
Kate’s brother James Middleton shared a photo of their childhood saying,
"Over the years, we have climbed many mountains together. As a family, we will climb this one with you too ⛰️❤️"
– James Middleton on Instagram
King Charles said, “so proud of Catherine for her courage in speaking as she did” and has “remained in the closest contact with his beloved daughter-in-law throughout the past weeks,.”
Charles and his wife Camilla “will continue to offer their love and support to the whole family through this difficult time,” the spokesperson added.
Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister said, “
The Princess of Wales has the love and support of the whole country. pic.twitter.com/IFX51Wm5Q3
— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) March 22, 2024
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said, “
My thoughts are with the Princess of Wales, her children, and the entire Royal Family following the news of her cancer so courageously shared.
On behalf of Canadians, I’m sending my support as she undergoes treatment. We’re all wishing her a swift recovery.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) March 22, 2024
US President Joe Biden said, “
Jill and I join millions around the world in praying for your full recovery, Princess Kate. https://t.co/jtLp8Uo23d
— President Biden (@POTUS) March 23, 2024
SOURCE: AL JAZEERA AND NEWS AGENCIES