Catherine, Princess of Wales, disclosed on Friday that she has been diagnosed with cancer and is undergoing treatment at an early stage.
42-year old Catherine, who is married to the heir to the British throne, Prince William described the diagnosis as a “significant shock” in a video statement shared on social media.
This announcement follows her temporary withdrawal from public life two months ago, which Kensington Palace had attributed to surgery for a non-cancerous abdominal condition.
“In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous,” she said.
“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.”
Kate continued that her diagnosis was “a huge shock” and that “William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family.”
The princess added, “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.”
Kate said that she had told them she is “well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits.”
She praised Prince William for being by her side as “a great source of comfort and reassurance” as well as the support she has received from the public.
“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,” the princess said.
She ended her heartfelt message by saying that she was also keeping “all those whose lives have been affected by cancer” in her thoughts.
“For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone,” Kate concluded.
The news is a significant setback for the British monarchy, as King Charles III is presently receiving treatment for an undisclosed cancer, as announced by Buckingham Palace in early February.
The update on the princess’s health follows Kate’s successful abdominal surgery on January 16. She stayed in a London hospital for 13 days post-surgery and, on medical advice, refrained from public engagements to aid her recovery.
Last weekend, Kate made her first public appearance since the surgery, accompanying her husband, Prince William, on a visit to a farm shop.
