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In March 2024, the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, took to Instagram to share that she was diagnosed with cancer.
Middleton was pictured sitting on a park bench outside, thanking the public for their support and explaining that the delay in publicly speaking about her health was to give George, Charlotte and Louis appropriate time to process the devastating news.
“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.
How Did Kate Middleton Find Out She Has Cancer?
The Princess explained that when her abdominal surgery was completed in January, her condition was thought to be non-cancerous.
The surgery was successful but following testing, cancer was found to be present in her pathology.
Middleton said that it has taken her some time after the major surgery to recover so that she can start chemotherapy treatment, but also taken them time to explain her health to the children in a way that suits their young ages.
However, ever the stoic optimist, Middleton took the opportunity to assure the public that she is feeling well and leaning on those around her for support when she needs to.
“As I’ve 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,” she said.
“We hope that you’ll understand that as a family we’ll need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment,” she added.
The Princess also took the time to acknowledge all those around the world whose lives have been affected by cancer, and thanked the public for their messages of support.
Why Did Prince William Not Sit Beside His Wife During The Announcement?
There was some confusion from royal watchers about Kate Middleton’s Instagram video, specifically why she was sitting alone during this difficult time. Twitter lit up with questions about why Prince William was not beside his wife.
However, in April, a source revealed that it was Kate’s decision to make the announcement on her own.
“It is a message from the princess about her health, and she wanted to personally deliver the message on her own,” a source told People. They added that the prince has been “supporting her throughout.”
“She did it with his full support and advice; [William] joined all the conversations around it,” another source told the Times, adding, “On every level, he wishes she didn’t have to do it. But it was her decision, it wasn’t begrudged, and he fully supported it.”
Another insider told the same publication, “This was her as a strong woman sharing an innately strong message to the nation. She didn’t need anyone sitting next to her. He has been supporting her and the family in the background.”
More power to you Catherine.
Queen Camilla Gives Awaited Kate Update
As the British public rallies around Kate Middleton following the announcement, the royal family have been mostly staying out of the public eye.
However, Queen Camilla faced an onslaught of well-wishers on a trip to a Farmer’s Market in Shrewsbury and stopped to thank them all for their support of the family and of Kate.
She told young onlookers who asked after Kate’s wellbeing, “I know that Catherine is thrilled by all the kind wishes and support,” according to The Sun.
They add that Camilla has been a “pillar of support” to the family, with her husband King Charles III, Middleton and also Sarah Ferguson all facing cancer battles concurrently.
Watch The Full Video From Kate Middleton Here
