Following months of speculation regarding her well-being, Princess Catherine has issued an emotional message revealing that she has been diagnosed with cancer.
The shocking news follows the Princess of Wales’ two-week hospital stay in January for planned abdominal surgery. Catherine revealed that subsequent tests uncovered the presence of cancer, and she is currently undergoing preventative chemotherapy.
While confirming her cancer diagnosis, the royal did not specify the type of cancer she has.
In the heartfelt video message, Princess Catherine bravely opened up about her deeply personal journey while addressing the speculation surrounding her health.
“I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you, personally, for all the wonderful messages of support and for your understanding whilst I have been recovering from surgery,” she began.
“It has been an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family, but I’ve had a fantastic medical team who have taken great care of me, for which I am so grateful.
“In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. 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.
“This of course came as a huge shock, and William and I 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.
“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.
“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. You are not alone.”
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In the wake of Princess Catherine’s courageous revelation about her cancer diagnosis, Buckingham Palace has released a heartfelt statement expressing the King’s profound pride in her bravery.
The King commended Catherine for her courage in addressing the situation publicly and reiterated his unwavering support for her throughout this challenging time.
“His Majesty (HM) is ‘so proud of Catherine for her courage in speaking as she did’,” the statement read.
“Following their time in 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.'”
Meanwhile, Kensington Palace confirmed that Prince William will maintain his royal duties while standing by his wife’s side, as he has done since her surgery.
As Princess Catherine focuses on her recovery, the world stands with her, offering love, support, and hope for brighter days ahead.
-with Reuters.