Princess Catherine diagnosed with cancer
Catherine, Princess of Wales, has been diagnosed with cancer and is receiving "early stages" of treatment for the disease.
In a video released via social media last week, Kate revealed that she is undergoing preventive chemotherapy to address her illness. However, she did not disclose the type of cancer with which she had been diagnosed.
The announcement came a mere two months after the British royal had to temporarily step away from her public duties following surgery for a non-cancerous abdominal condition, according to Kensington Palace.
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"In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous," Kate said.
"The surgery was successful. However, tests after the operation found that 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."
Princess Catherine to focus on treatment
The Princess of Wales said that she and her husband, William, Prince of Wales, are doing their best to deal with the matter privately for the sake of their young family.
"As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment," she explained.
"But, most importantly, it has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte, and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be okay."
According to Kate, she had told her children that she is "well and getting stronger every day" by focusing on things that will help her mind, body, and spirit heal.
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Kate also praised Prince William for being a source of comfort and reassurance for her throughout her treatment. She also appreciated the support given to her by the public.
"We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space, and privacy while I complete my treatment," she said.
"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."
Kate ended her video message by letting all those affected by cancer know that they are in her thoughts.
"For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone," the Princess of Wales said.
Difficult time for the royal family
Kate has been relatively out of the public eye in recent months. In January, the princess was admitted to The London Clinic where she successfully underwent planned abdominal surgery. She stayed at the private hospital for 13 days following the procedure on her doctor's advice, keeping her away from her public duties as she recovered.
Kate made her first public appearance after her surgery last week while visiting a farm shop with her husband after weeks of intense speculation about her whereabouts and health condition.
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News of Kate's cancer diagnosis comes several weeks after Buckingham Palace revealed King Charles III's own battle with an unspecified cancer.
In a statement released via Buckingham Palace, King Charles said he was proud of Kate for "her courage in speaking as she did" about her medical condition. He has "remained in the closest contact" with his daughter-in-law since they are both receiving treatment from The London Clinic.
The British monarch said he and Queen Camilla will "continue to offer their love and support to the whole family through this difficult time."
Outpouring of support
Since Kate's announcement, people from all over the world have extended their well wishes to her and her family.
In a joint statement, Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, said they "wish health and healing for Kate and the family, and hope they are able to do so privately and in peace."
Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said Kate has "the love and support of the whole country." He praised the Princess of Wales for her "tremendous bravery" in facing her cancer diagnosis.
Sunak also criticised the press and people on social media for the "intense scrutiny" and unfair treatment of Kate over the past months.