Kate, the Princess of Wales, was diagnosed with cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy, she said in a video message released on Friday, two months after she underwent “major” abdominal surgery.
The type of cancer has not been disclosed. She started chemotherapy in late February and the announcement comes as her father-in-law, King Charles, also undergoes cancer treatment.
“This of course came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family,” Kate, 42, said in the video, which was filmed at Windsor on Wednesday. “As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment.”
The cancer was discovered in post-operative tests after her abdominal surgery in mid-January, Kate said.
Catherine, Princess of Wales departs Buckingham Palace in a horse drawn carriage to attend Trooping the Colour on June 17, 2023 in London.
Max Mumby/indigo/Getty Images, FILE
Kate described it as a “major abdominal surgery,” and said in her video, “at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous.”
The type of surgery she underwent has not been released.
Catherine, Princess of Wales’ released an official statement on her health on March 22, 2024.
BBC Studios
“The surgery was successful,” Kate said. “However, tests after the operation found 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.”
At the time of Kate’s surgery, Kensington Palace said her condition was non-cancerous. The palace has provided little information on her condition since.
“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 ok,” Kate said. “As I have said to them; I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits.”
Kate said having her husband, William, the Prince of Wales, at her “side is a great source of comfort and reassurance.”
“We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment. 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 said. “I am also thinking of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer. For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone.”
Kate will return to official duties when she’s cleared by her medical team.
Kate’s father-in-law, King Charles, is also undergoing treatment for an undisclosed type of cancer.
The king’s cancer diagnosis — which came after he was treated for benign prostate enlargement — was announced publicly by the palace on Feb. 5.
In this Sept. 28, 2021 file photo, Britain’s Prince Charles, left, speaks with Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge as they arrive for the World premiere of the new film from the James Bond franchise ‘No Time To Die’, in London.
Chris Jackson/Pool Photo via AP, FILE
The type of treatment has not been revealed.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak told the BBC in February that the king’s cancer was “caught early.”
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.