Catherine, Princess of Wales, revealed on Friday (22) that she has been diagnosed with cancer.
The princess described the diagnosis as a “great shock” in a video shared on social media. The news comes two months after she temporarily stepped back from public life, following what Kensington Palace said at the time was surgery for a non-cancerous abdominal issue.
“In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London, and at the time, it was believed that my condition was not cancerous,” said Catherine, 42, who is married to the heir to the British throne, Prince William.
“The surgery was a success. However, tests after the operation revealed the presence of cancer. My medical team, therefore, advised that I should undergo preventive chemotherapy, and I am now in the early stages of that treatment.”
Kate said that her diagnosis was “a great 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 took me a while to recover from major surgery to start my treatment. But, most importantly, we took time to explain everything to George, Charlotte, and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I will be okay.”
She told them that she is “doing well and getting stronger every day, focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body, and spirit.”
She praised Prince William for being by her side as “a great source of comfort and security,” as well as the support she has received from the public.
“We hope you understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space, and privacy while I finish my treatment. My work has always brought me deep joy, and I look forward to returning when I can, but for now, I must focus on a complete recovery,” the princess said.
She concluded her message by saying that she also keeps in her thoughts “all those whose lives have been affected by cancer.”
“To everyone facing this disease, whatever form it takes, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone,” Kate concluded.
The announcement is a devastating blow to the British monarchy, as King Charles III is currently undergoing treatment for unspecified cancer, announced by Buckingham Palace in early February.
Kate was seen in public for the first time since the surgery, visiting a store alongside her husband last weekend.
Source: CNN