Princess Catherine of Wales has shared a personal update revealing her recent diagnosis of cancer and the commencement of her chemotherapy treatment. In a heartfelt video message released on Friday, she expressed the challenges her family has faced over the past two months, describing them as “incredibly tough.”
This announcement follows closely after King Charles III disclosed his battle with cancer and subsequent treatment in early February. Catherine’s diagnosis comes after a period marked by uncertainty regarding her health, particularly following the abdominal surgery she underwent in January, during which she largely withdrew from public life to focus on her recovery.
In her prerecorded message aired on the BBC Friday evening in Britain, the princess expressed her shock at the news and appealed for understanding, requesting “time, space, and privacy” as she navigates this difficult journey.
Below is a full transcript of the video message from Catherine, Princess of Wales:
I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you, personally, for all the wonderful messages of support and for your understanding whilst I have been recovering from surgery.
It has been an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family, but I’ve had a fantastic medical team who have taken great care of me, for which I am so grateful.
In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was noncancerous. The surgery was successful. 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.
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.
As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment. 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 OK.
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.
Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too. As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both.
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.
At this time, 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.
We send our well wishes to the Princess of Wales as she undergoes the care that she needs.
