Princess Kate’s Health: The Official Palace Perspective
The future queen spoke of an “incredibly tough couple of months” for the Royal Family and bravely shared that she is “getting stronger every day”. Kensington Palace has addressed some of the questions that people have about the princess’ well-being, diagnosis and treatment plan as she prioritises her health and family.
Kate, 42, announced on Friday that she is undergoing the early stages of preventative chemotherapy after tests following her abdominal surgery in January discovered cancer present. The difficult news came as a ‘huge shock’, the mother-of-three said in her emotional and heartfelt televised statement.
What has Kate said?
In a recorded message to the public, Kate said: “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 non-cancerous. 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.”
When was Kate diagnosed?
Kate’s cancer was diagnosed after she had major surgery on her abdomen in January. Kensington Palace said it happened: “Once post-operative tests had been completed and results reviewed.”
What type of cancer is it?
It has not been confirmed what type of cancer Kate has, nor what stage, and this information will remain private. The Palace said: “We will not be sharing any further private medical information. The Princess has a right to medical privacy, as we all do.”
How was it diagnosed?
Doctors initially thought that Kate’s condition was non-cancerous, and it is believed that none of the tests she had flagged cancer. After her operation, subsequent tests found cancer had been present. Kensington Palace said the cancer was diagnosed “once post-operative tests had been completed and results reviewed.”
What treatment is Kate having?
Kate started preventative chemotherapy in late February. Kensington Palace said: “The Princess is now on a recovery pathway having commenced a course of preventative chemotherapy.” How long the treatment will last is said to be subject to medical advice. The Palace will not be sharing details of where Kate is being treated.
Why did Kate hold off sharing the diagnosis?
It is understood Kate wanted time and space to come to terms with her cancer diagnosis and recover from her abdominal surgery before announcing the news to the world. Kate and William chose to wait until after their three children had broken up from school for their Easter holidays. Kensington Palace said: “The Princess wanted to share this information when she and The Prince felt it was right for them as a family.”
Is Kate being treated on the NHS?
Kate’s original operation took place at a private hospital in London called The London Clinic, though it is unknown where and how the Princess is receiving her current treatment. Kensington Palace will not be sharing these details. It is understood Kate’s medical team will consider a range of factors for her healthcare, including the potential impact on other patients.
When will Kate return to royal duties?
Kate said she hopes to be back at work as soon as she is well enough, but explained that for now, she is focussed on her 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.”
Kensington Palace said: “The Princess will return to official duties when she is cleared to do so by her medical team. She is in good spirits and is focused on making a full recovery.” They also said: “Kensington Palace will provide information, when the time is right, and The Princess is able to restart work and her duties.”
When will William return to public duties?
It is understood William will return to public duties when his children have returned to school after the Easter break. Kensington Palace said: “The Prince will continue to balance supporting his wife and family and maintaining his official duties as he has done since the start of the year.”
What has the King said?
Buckingham Palace said in a statement on Friday: “His Majesty is ‘so proud of Catherine for her courage in speaking as she did’. Following their time in hospital together, HM has ‘remained in the closest contact with his beloved daughter-in-law throughout the past weeks.’ Both Their Majesties ‘will continue to offer their love and support to the whole family through this difficult time’.”