Kate Middleton and Prince William 'touched' by reaction to former's cancer diagnosis
In a statement released on March 23, a Kensington Palace spokesperson said the couple were "extremely touched by the public's enthusiasm and support and appreciate their understanding of their request for privacy at this time."
Middleton revealed her diagnosis in a video posted on the Kensington Royal X account (formerly Twitter) on March 22. The senior royal said she was diagnosed with cancer following planned abdominal surgery in January.
"At the time, people thought my condition was not cancer. However, post-surgery tests revealed that cancer was already present," she said. As a result, Middleton said her medical team recommended she undergo a round of preventive chemotherapy to prevent the cancer from spreading further. "I'm in the early stages of treatment right now," she said.
She said the discovery of the cancer had left her and her husband, Prince William, "shocked" and said they had been "doing everything we can to deal with and manage this privately for the sake of our young family."
She went on to explain that she and William told their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, that they "took some time" to explain the situation in a way that suited them and reassured them that I would be fine. . "
"Like I tell them, I'm fine, and I'm getting stronger every day by focusing on things that help me heal my mind, body and spirit," she said.
Middleton also addressed when she will return to public service, meaning a previously reported timeline for her returning to work after Easter may no longer be the case. “My work has always brought me deep joy and I look forward to returning when I am able,” she said. "But now, I have to focus on making a full recovery."
Middleton isn't the only royal currently battling cancer. In February, Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles III had been diagnosed with cancer and had begun treatment. The day before the princess announced her diagnosis, Queen Camilla updated her husband's health during a visit to the North Island, saying he was "doing very well".
Middleton ended her March 22 video by asking her family for "time, space and privacy" as she completes treatment and sending a message of support to those whose lives have also been affected by cancer.
"To everyone facing this disease in any form, please do not lose faith or hope," she said. "you are not alone."
