Kate Middleton and her husband, Prince William, expressed deep appreciation for the overwhelming support they received after the Princess shared her cancer diagnosis. In a video message, Middleton disclosed her ongoing preventative chemotherapy following a planned abdominal surgery that revealed the presence of cancer.
In a joint statement released on Saturday via Kensington Palace, the couple conveyed their gratitude for the heartfelt messages they received. Their spokesperson conveyed that both Prince William and Princess Middleton were deeply moved by the outpouring of kindness from individuals in the U.K., across the Commonwealth, and worldwide in response to the Princess’s message.
“They are deeply moved by the warmth and support from the public and appreciate the understanding of their need for privacy during this challenging time.”
Following her revelation about her health, Middleton, who underwent significant surgery earlier in the year, did not provide further details about the type or extent of her cancer in the video message. Initially believed to be noncancerous, Middleton’s condition took a different turn.
Shortly after the video’s release on the couple’s social media platforms, King Charles III issued a supportive statement for his daughter-in-law. The monarch expressed pride in Catherine’s courage to speak out and emphasized his ongoing support and close contact with her during this period.
Both Charles and Queen Camilla vowed to continue offering love and assistance to the entire family throughout this ordeal.
In February, Charles disclosed his cancer diagnosis following a procedure for an enlarged prostate. He and Middleton received treatment at the London Clinic, being discharged on the same day, January 29.
Prince William’s estranged brother, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle also extended their support. Their spokesperson conveyed wishes for Kate’s health and privacy during this time.
Kate’s brother, James Middleton, shared a childhood photo with her on Instagram, expressing solidarity and emphasizing the family’s united front in facing this challenge.
Outside Windsor Castle, well-wishers left flowers, and visitors to Windsor and Kensington Palace expressed their sympathy and were touched by Kate’s message about her health struggles.
U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak commended Kate’s bravery in sharing her statement, highlighting the unfair treatment she has faced from certain media outlets and on social media.
Sunak’s remarks pointed to the intense speculation surrounding Middleton’s health and whereabouts, which became a media frenzy and social media topic after the palace announced in January that she would undergo surgery and step back from public engagements until Easter.
Her last public appearance was on December 25, and sightings of her have been rare since then. Concerns about her well-being heightened when a photo of Middleton with her three children, released by Kensington Palace on Mother’s Day, was found to have been noticeably altered.
Friday’s video message marked the first significant update on Middleton’s condition, although it remains unclear when she will resume public engagements. Middleton and William were not expected to attend the traditional Easter Sunday service in Windsor with other royals.
“The Princess will resume her official duties once she receives clearance from her medical team,” stated a spokesperson for Kensington Palace. “She is in good spirits and is committed to making a full recovery.”