Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, reveals she has cancer
What's the story
Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, revealed on Friday that she has been diagnosed with cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy.
The revelation was made via a video message, following weeks of conjecture about her health status. Notably, she had undergone a major abdominal surgery in January.
Initially, the surgery was for a benign condition, but subsequent evaluations uncovered cancer.
Details
Duchess has started preventative chemotherapy regimen
In her video message, Kate disclosed that she has begun a preventative chemotherapy regimen based on her medical team's advice.
"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," she said.
The Duchess is currently in the initial stages of her treatment.
Family
She has disclosed it to her kids
Before making her health status public, the Duchess took time to discuss her situation with her children: Prince George (10); Princess Charlotte (8); and Prince Louis (5).
In her video message, she mentioned that it took time to explain everything to them in a manner suitable for their ages and to reassure them about her recovery.
The Palace has not released any additional details about the specific type of cancer she is fighting.
Charles
Royal family confronts second cancer diagnosis
This announcement serves as another setback for the royal family following King Charles's (Kate's father-in-law) cancer diagnosis last month. Charles has since deferred his public royal duties to focus on treatment.
To recall, Kate's absence from public events since Christmas Day had sparked intense speculation on social media about her health status, further fueled by an altered image released by Kensington Palace on Mother's Day.
Facts
The influence of Kate Middleton on the British monarchy
Since marrying Prince William in 2011, Kate has significantly enhanced the global popularity of the British monarchy.
She met William at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland around 2001, and their relationship became public during a skiing holiday in Switzerland in 2004.
Her diagnosis and subsequent withdrawal from public life have been deeply felt by royal enthusiasts and supporters worldwide.
Twitter Post
Here's the message from her
A message from Catherine, The Princess of Wales pic.twitter.com/5LQT1qGarK
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) March 22, 2024