In a show of loving support, Prince William has paid a discreet visit to his wife, Princess Catherine, at a London hospital where she is recuperating after undergoing abdominal surgery.
The 42-year-old Princess of Wales is reported to be in good spirits and is expected to take a hiatus from her public duties until April.
Prince William, appearing serious and focused, was spotted leaving the hospital around 12.30 pm on Thursday, January 18.
Driving himself away in an Audi e-Tron GT Carbon Vorsprung, accompanied by a Land Rover Discovery, Prince William opted for a low-key exit through the back entrance.
In a statement, Kensington Palace confirmed the visit, stating, “The Prince has just left the hospital after visiting his wife.”
Royal officials had announced on Wednesday, January 17 that Princess Catherine has undergone surgery and was expected to stay at the private London Clinic for a period of 10 to 14 days.
“Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales was admitted to hospital yesterday for planned abdominal surgery. The surgery was successful and it is expected that she will remain in hospital for ten to fourteen days, before returning home to continue her recovery. Based on the current medical advice, she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter,” the statement read.
“The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate. She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible; and her wish that her personal medical information remains private.
“Kensington Palace will, therefore, only provide updates on Her Royal Highness’ progress when there is significant new information to share.
“The Princess of Wales wishes to apologise to all those concerned for the fact that she has to postpone her upcoming engagements. She looks forward to reinstating as many as possible, as soon as possible.”
Reports indicate that the Princess of Wales was “doing well” after the operation, details of which have not yet been disclosed.
While Prince William stands by his wife during her time of recuperation, the Royal Family faces another health concern after it was revealed that King Charles is to undergo a “corrective procedure” for an enlarged prostate.
“In common with thousands of men each year, the king has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate,” Buckingham Palace announced in a statement.
Queen Camilla offered an update on the King’s health during her visit to Aberdeen on Thursday morning.
“He’s fine, thank you very much. Looking forward to getting back to work,” Camilla affirmed when asked about the King’s well-being.
The Queen’s optimistic update on the King’s condition is likely to bring relief to royal watchers who have been closely monitoring the family’s health news.
As the public eagerly awaits further updates on Catherine’s recovery and the King’s procedure, the supportive actions of Prince William and the reassuring words of Queen Camilla offer a glimpse into the resilience and unity within the royal household during times of adversity.
-with AP and Reuters.