After recently delighting royal watchers with the news that she had completed her course of preventative chemotherapy for cancer, Princess Catherine is already back at work.
On Tuesday, September 17, she held a meeting at Windsor Castle to discuss a cause close to her heart, the early years development of children.
She was joined by her household team and staff from the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, an organisation she established to promote the importance of early years development and conduct research.
The Court Circular recorded the meeting, stating: “The Princess of Wales, Joint Patron, the Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales, this afternoon held an Early Years Meeting at Windsor Castle.”
Catherine’s return to work comes after she shared the good news of her health battle in a heartfelt message on social media, accompanied by a video featuring her, her husband, and their three young children: Princes George, Prince Louis, and Princess Charlotte.
“As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment,” she began.
“The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown.
“The cancer journey is complex, scary and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you.
“With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerabilities in a way you have never considered before, and with that, a new perspective on everything.
“This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted. Of simply loving and being loved.
“Doing what I can to stay cancer free is now my focus. Although I have finished chemotherapy, my path to healing and full recovery is long and I must continue to take each day as it comes.
“I am however looking forward to being back at work and undertaking a few more public engagements in the coming months when I can.
“Despite all that has gone before I enter this new phase of recovery with a renewed sense of hope and appreciation of life.
“William and I are so grateful for the support we have received and have drawn great strength from all those who are helping us at this time. Everyone’s kindness, empathy and compassion has been truly humbling.
“To all those who are continuing their own cancer journey – I remain with you, side by side, hand in hand. Out of darkness, can come light so let that light shine bright.”
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It’s been a long road for Princess Catherine to reach this welcome milestone in her health journey and return to royal duties.
Catherine stepped away from the public eye following a two-week hospital stay in January after she underwent major abdominal surgery.
She later revealed, in an emotional video message, that she had been diagnosed with cancer and would be taking time away as she underwent treatment.
Following a prolonged absence from the public eye, Catherine eased concerns for her well-being in June when she announced that she was “making good progress” in her cancer battle and would be attending this year’s Trooping the Colour.
Her return to public life was met with an outpouring of support and admiration. Catherine’s appearance at Trooping the Colour garnered overwhelming fanfare, and she was warmly welcomed with a standing ovation upon her arrival at this year’s Wimbledon tournament.
-with PA.