Kate’s Shocking Message
Kate released a video update on Friday, 22 March 2024 regarding an update on her health.
Addressing weeks of speculation about her whereabouts and well-being since being hospitalized in January, in the recorded message she revealed that she had undergone major abdominal surgery in London in January, which was initially believed to be non-cancerous.
A message from Catherine, The Princess of Wales pic.twitter.com/5LQT1qGarK
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) March 22, 2024
However, subsequent tests showed the presence of cancer, prompting her medical team to recommend preventative chemotherapy.
Kate emphasized that the diagnosis was a “huge shock” and that she is now in the early stages of treatment.
She also highlighted the importance of taking time to recover from surgery and to explain the situation to her children, George, Charlotte, and Louis, in a manner suitable for their understanding and to reassure them of her well-being.
Cancer in the Royals
King Charles was diagnosed with cancer in February, less than 18 months after assuming the throne following the passing of his mother, Queen Elizabeth, in September 2022.
Since his diagnosis, he has reduced his public appearances. Buckingham Palace has not disclosed the stage of his cancer.
On January 21, Sarah, Duchess of York, the ex-wife of Prince Andrew, revealed that she has malignant melanoma, a type of skin cancer.
Kate’s Surgery on January 16?
The 42 year old Princess of Wales, underwent abdominal surgery on January 16, although the announcement was not made until the following day when Kensington Palace confirmed that the princess was recuperating from a planned procedure.
Officials stated at the time that her condition was not cancerous but did not provide specific details regarding the surgery, only noting its success.
They also mentioned that her return to public engagements was unlikely until after Easter, which falls on March 31 this year.
Kate was discharged from the London Clinic, a private hospital near Regent’s Park in central London, on January 29. Following her release, she returned to Windsor, located west of London, to continue her recovery.
Coincidentally, Charles was also discharged from the same hospital on the same day as Kate.
Despite the palace’s efforts to provide clarity on the timeline of the princess’s recovery, speculation surrounding Kate’s health and whereabouts persisted.
Middleton’s Treatment
The palace issued a statement indicating that no further information would be disclosed regarding Kate’s cancer diagnosis or her treatment plan, except for the fact that she commenced treatment in late February.
Following a successful surgery, chemotherapy is commonly employed to eradicate any residual cancer cells and to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
Advances in treatment have led to modifications in chemotherapy protocols, with some patients now receiving shorter durations or lower doses than previously administered.
The recovery period from chemotherapy side effects can vary from a few weeks to a couple of months.
Global Reactions on the Announcement!
Prince Harry and Meghan, who have been distant from William and Kate since relocating to California in 2020, extended their well wishes to the princess.
“We hope for Kate’s health and recovery, and wish her and the family the space to do so in private and tranquility,” they conveyed in a statement.
James Middleton, Kate’s brother, expressed his solidarity by sharing a childhood photo of the siblings.
King Charles expressed his pride in Kate for openly addressing her battle with cancer.
Charles commended Catherine for her bravery in sharing her story and has maintained close contact with her throughout her hospitalization, following their time together at the hospital, a spokesperson from Buckingham Palace disclosed.
Charles and Camilla pledged to offer unwavering love and support to the entire family during this challenging period, the spokesperson emphasized.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasized Kate’s widespread support, asserting that she has the backing of the entire nation.
The Princess of Wales has the love and support of the whole country. pic.twitter.com/IFX51Wm5Q3
— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) March 22, 2024
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also conveyed his hopes for Kate’s swift recovery.
In a statement posted on X, US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden expressed solidarity with millions worldwide in praying for Kate’s complete recuperation.
