On March 22, 2024, Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, announced that she was undergoing chemotherapy for an undisclosed type of cancer. The 42-year-old princess underwent abdominal surgery two months before the diagnosis, where it was discovered in post-op that cancer was found.
"The surgery was successful," Middleton said. "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."
In the announcement video, Middleton described how she and Prince William reassured their children she was OK, focusing on things that “will help me heal, in my mind, body, and spirits.” They also asked the public for their time and understanding.
“We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment,” Middleton said in the video. “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. I am also thinking of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer. For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone."
The Princess announced her remission in an official post through “The Prince and The Princess of Wales” X account Jan. 14.
“It is a relief to now be in remission and I remain focussed on recovery,” Middleton said in the X post. “As anyone who has experienced a cancer diagnosis will know, it takes time to adjust to a new normal. I am however looking forward to a fulfilling year ahead. There is much to look forward to. Thank you to everyone for your continued support. C”
Middleton also mentioned her “new role as Joint Patron of The Royal Marsden.” Middleton visited patients in the Diane McCarthy Day Unit, where they receive chemotherapy and immunotherapy, and discussed her cancer journey and treatment at The Royal Marsden.
Middleton reportedly told one cancer patient at the medical center, "It's really tough. It's such a shock."
“Everyone said to me please keep a positive mindset, it makes such a difference,” Middleton said to the patient. “I really felt like I needed to get the sun. You need loads of water and loads of sunlight."
Middleton told one woman her reasoning for visiting the hospital while leaving the hospital, which included highlighting the fantastic work of the hospital and expressing gratitude.
“I wanted to come and show my support for the amazing work that's going on here and for those who are going through treatment and having such a hard time," Middleton said. "There is light at the end of that tunnel, very nice to meet you and best of luck. You are in the best of hands."
In the remission announcement, she further explains her hopes for the impact and ability of her new role.
“My hope is that by supporting groundbreaking research and clinical excellence, as well as promoting patient and family wellbeing, we might save many more lives, and transform the experience of all those impacted by cancer,” Middleton said.
Although specific plans for the future have yet to be announced, it is obvious that the princess’s main focus will be on cancer research and patient care. Her newest duty is one she has been very vocal about caring for along with its importance personally.
Though the princess has yet to step back fully from the role of a working royal, she is enjoying her recovery. Recently, the Prince and Princess of Wales took their branch of the royal tree on a skiing getaway in the French Alps.
According to the Daily Mail, a member of the resort staff said, “It was lovely to see Kate relaxing and enjoying herself.”
The staff member added, “They looked like a normal English family, and a lot of people didn't recognise them. It was not the first time we had seen them. They have been coming here for years. I think they love the area. We often see Kate's sister Pippa as well.”
One patron of a restaurant the Wales dined at commented on how happy the family looked.
“Everyone seemed to be really happy,” the patron said. “There were no airs and graces and actually they seemed like any normal family enjoying a ski break…Kate looked like she was having a lovely time.”
While the royal couple has been through many slippery slopes this past year, it would look like there is a bright path ahead as the Princess gets adjusted to a new normal.
