LONDON. Princess Kate of Wales disclosed on Friday that she is battling cancer and is currently undergoing chemotherapy. The announcement, made via a video message recorded in Windsor and broadcasted on Friday, follows weeks of speculation surrounding her health and absence from public view.
The 42-year-old princess, who had not been seen publicly since Christmas, disclosed her condition while seated on a bench against a backdrop of daffodils, symbols of hope often associated with cancer battles. She appeared in casual attire, wearing a striped sweater and jeans.
The news comes after Princess Kate’s hospitalization for unspecified abdominal surgery in January, which sparked widespread rumors on social media platforms. In her message, she requested “time, space, and privacy” as she undergoes treatment for the undisclosed type of cancer, which was discovered following what she described as “major” surgery.
Prince William, her husband and heir to the throne, was shown alongside her in recent footage, which surfaced this week, as they strolled near a shop on the royal family’s Windsor estate.
The revelation adds to recent challenges faced by the royal family, including the announcement last month of King Charles III’s cancer diagnosis. King Charles expressed pride in Princess Kate’s courage for speaking out about her condition, stating he has been in close contact with her during her treatment.
Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have been estranged from William and Kate, extended their well wishes, expressing hopes for privacy and peace during this time.
Prior to Friday’s announcement, Kensington Palace had provided limited details about Princess Kate’s health, stating her absence from public duties until April was due to non-cancerous reasons. However, post-surgery tests revealed the cancer diagnosis, leading to the decision to undergo chemotherapy.
Princess Kate’s decision to address the nation directly, rather than through the palace, reflects a rare level of intimacy and transparency from a royal family member. Her treatment, described as “preventative,” is said to be in the early stages, according to medical experts.
The announcement coincides with the start of the Easter holidays, shielding her three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—from media coverage of the news.
World leaders and public figures have extended messages of support and admiration for Princess Kate’s bravery in facing her diagnosis, highlighting her significant role within the royal family and her global impact.
Princess Kate, formerly known as Kate Middleton, has been credited with revitalizing the image of the British monarchy since her marriage to Prince William in 2011. Raised in Berkshire, she had no aristocratic background before her royal marriage, earning her the title of a “commoner” marrying into royalty.
As she embarks on this challenging journey, Princess Kate can count on the support of her family, including her brother James Middleton, who expressed solidarity in an Instagram post, affirming their united front in facing this adversity.
Princess Kate’s journey, from her upbringing in Berkshire to her royal marriage and subsequent public role, has been closely followed by millions around the world. Her courage and resilience in confronting this new challenge are sure to inspire many.
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
