Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have responded to the heartbreaking news of Princess Catherine's cancer revelation.
On Friday (March 22), Catherine, Princess of Wales, took to Kensington Palace's social media platforms to release a video message informing the public of her heartbreaking cancer diagnosis.
The full video can be seen below:
The Princess of Wales revealed that the diagnosis came after her abdominal surgery back in January.
"In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous," Catherine said. "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."
She explained how she and husband Prince William have been navigating telling their three children - Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis - of the news. "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," she said.
Princess Catherine revealed she is battling cancer. Credit: Stephen Pond/Getty Images
Now, Princess Catherine's brother-in-law and sister-in-law - the Duke and Duchess of Sussex - have issued a brief statement in response to the news.
In a brief statement to Harper's Bazaar, the couple said: "We wish health and healing for Kate and the family, and hope they are able to do so privately and in peace."
Harry and Meghan have responded to the news of Princess Catherine's diagnosis. Credit: Mike Coppola / Getty
Elsewhere in Princess Catherine's statement, she praised the support of her husband, Prince William, saying: "Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too."
She then praised the support of her dedicated fans, adding: "As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means 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," the Princess stressed, following weeks of scrutinity and conspiracy theories regarding her whereabouts. "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."
Princess Catherine then shares a message of solidarity to others battling and impacted by cancer, saying: "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."
A full timeline of Princess Catherine's health journey over the last few months can be found here.
We wish Princess Catherine the very best on her recovery journey and send our thoughts to her family at this time.
She revealed that while the surgery was not initially deemed to be cancer-related, the disease was found as a result, and she has begun preventative chemotherapy.
Watch her full message below:
Following on from Catherine's video, the Princess was met with an overwhelming wave of support and well-wishes from the public.
In their first public statement since the announcement, she and Prince William thanked everyone for their kindness and understanding of their request for privacy for them and their three young children.
They said in a statement, shared by BBC News: "The Prince and Princess are both enormously touched by the kind messages from people here in the UK, across the Commonwealth, and around the world in response to Her Royal Highness's message.
"They are extremely moved by the public's warmth and support and are grateful for the understanding of their request for privacy at this time."
William and Kate thanked the public for their support in the wake of the announcement. Credit: Chris Jackson/Getty Images
Princess Catherine had spent two weeks in hospital after undergoing major abdominal surgery in January, before being discharged to continue her recovery at home.
Speculation had mounted after the Princess remained out of the limelight, with the Palace initially having said she would return to public duty after Easter.
Following her announcement, Catherine revealed that she is undergoing preventative chemotherapy and would return to work when she feels ready.
Read her full statement below:
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 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.
The couple explained the diagnosis to their young children before going public. Credit: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images
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 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."
Our thoughts remain with Princess Catherine and wish her well in her recovery.
Last month, the Princess of Wales released a video message informing the public that she had been diagnosed with cancer after speculations about her whereabouts went viral on social media.
Watch the video below:
In the emotional video, the 42-year-old revealed that she and her husband are taking the time to explain the situation to their three young children - George, 10, Charlotte, eight, and Louis, five.
"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," she said.
"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 added.
She has paused her royal duties while she undergoes preventative chemotherapy.
The Princess of Wales revealed that she had been diagnosed with cancer. Credit: Samir Hussein / Getty
The Prince of Wales has been making solo appearances while his wife takes time off for treatment.
On Tuesday (April 30), the 41-year-old visited Seaham and Newcastle, where he did his first official engagement at Low Carbon Materials.
He then went to Newcastle where he opened James' Place - a charitably-run suicide prevention center offering free, life-saving treatment for young men from a new base in Summerhill.
While there, a member of the public, draped in a Union Flag, asked the heir to the throne: "Do you mind if I ask how your wife and children are?" according to Metro.
William responded: "All doing well, thank you. Yes, we’re doing well."
King Charles III - who is also being treated for cancer - will return to public duties. Credit: Karwai Tang / Getty
In other royal news, King Charles III - who is also being treated for cancer - has returned to public duties.
The 75-year-old announced in February that he had been diagnosed following treatment for a benign enlarged prostate. The Royal Family did not specify the form of cancer.
On Friday (April 26), Buckingham Palace revealed in a statement that said: “His Majesty the King will shortly return to public-facing duties after a period of treatment and recuperation following his recent cancer diagnosis," per The Guardian.
His first engagement was a visit to a cancer treatment center on Tuesday. He will also host a state visit by the emperor and empress of Japan in June.
“As the first anniversary of the coronation approaches, Their Majesties remain deeply grateful for the many kindnesses and good wishes they have received from around the world throughout the joys and challenges of the past year,” the statement continued.
The spokesperson said the King’s treatment program would continue, “but doctors are sufficiently pleased with the progress so far that the king is now able to resume a number of public-facing duties”.
The Princess of Wales, 42, addressed the nation on Friday (March 22), sharing a video message confirming that she had been diagnosed with cancer after undergoing abdominal surgery in January.
The palace had initially stated that the major surgery was not related to cancer and that the Princess would return to her duties after Easter, however, it was later found that "cancer had been present".
She told the public that she was in the early stages of preventative chemotherapy and that her focus was on making a full recovery.
Watch her full message below:
It has since been revealed that the reason Princess Catherine chose Friday evening to share her message, was in order to make the news easier on her three young children.
According to reports, Catherine opted to share the news on the Friday before the Easter holidays so that her children would not need to face any extra attention while at school.
Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, eight, and Prince Louis, five, have finished school for the holidays and will spend the next few weeks at home with their parents before returning to school.
The timing of the announcement was specifically chosen to let the attention around their mother die down before they have to face their peers on the playground.
The timing of the announcement was chosen to make it easier on the children. Credit: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images
In her statement, Catherine told the public: "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 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."
She added: "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."
Princess Catherine revealed that she has started preventive chemotherapy. Credit: Samir Hussein/WireImage/Getty Images
The Princess added that her husband, Prince William, has been a "great source of comfort and reassurance too", adding: "As is the love, support, and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means much to us both."
She then asked for her privacy to be respected as she continues with her treatment and recovery, adding: "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 wish Princess Catherine well with her treatment and continued recovery.
Princess Catherine's family friend has provided a positive update about the royal's cancer battle.
Earlier this year, the Princess of Wales released an emotional video message revealing that she is undergoing "preventative chemotherapy" after being diagnosed with cancer.
The 42-year-old shared that the diagnosis came after she underwent major abdominal surgery back in January, and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from everyone.
Although she didn't disclose many details about her health battle, she did state: "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."
Check out the video below:
It's been two months since Catherine stepped back from royal duties.
While an official return date has not been disclosed, sources close to the princess have shared that the royal can see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Speaking to Vanity Fair, a family friend said: "It has been a great relief that she is tolerating the medication and is actually doing a lot better."
“It has, of course, been a very challenging and worrying time. Everyone has rallied around her - William, her parents, and her sister and brother," they added.
The Princess of Wales revealed that she was diagnosed with cancer. Credit: Max Mumby/Indigo / Getty
While the mom-of-three is staying away from the spotlight, she did return to social media this month to open up about a project in honor of Mental Health Awareness Week.
Catherine and her husband, Prince William, shared a video that highlighted the psychological struggles young farmers can face. While the royal doesn't appear in the video, she and William contributed to its production.
“For Mental Health Awareness Week, we brought together inspirational Duchy of Cornwall tenant Sam Stables, founder of We Are Farming Minds, with Farmer Will Young, for a conversation about farmers' experience with mental health and the positive outcomes that can be achieved with the right support,” the prince and princess wrote on YouTube.
“Spending a day together on Sam's farm in Hereford, they chatted about finding support, the Duchy Mental Health Strategy, and their hopes for the future. Whether a farmer or not, we hope you'll take something from this film and Sam's incredible story," they concluded.
Many fans took to the comments section to praise the princess for her dedication to work, given her current circumstances.
One user wrote: "It’s wonderful that you are focusing on the mental health of the people living in rural areas too! Well done."
A second said: "Can't even begin to say how much I love the awareness HRH The Prince of Wales brings to the issues surrounding Mental Health."
Catherine's father-in-law, King Charles III was diagnosed with cancer too. Credit: Chris Jackson / Getty
The princess' father-in-law, King Charles III, has recently returned to public-facing duties while still receiving treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer.
Buckingham Palace confirmed that the 75-year-old will attend Trooping the Colour on June 15, which marks the monarch’s official birthday.
Meanwhile, Catherine will not attend the historic parade as she will be continuing cancer treatment.
Kensington Palace has announced that Catherine, Princess of Wales, is battling cancer.
The announcement was made on March 22, with the Princess revealing in a video message that she had been diagnosed with cancer following her abdominal surgery in January. Watch her announcement below:
She is now in the early stages of chemotherapy treatment.
Princess Catherine ensured the public that she is feeling "well".
Princess Catherine underwent abdominal surgery back in January. Credit: Stephen Pond/Getty
Princess Catherine's most recent appearance at an official royal engagement was during the traditional Christmas walk at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene in Norfolk. Accompanied by her husband William and their children Louis, Charlotte, and George, she joined other members of the royal family for the service.
Afterward, the family took time to greet well-wishers gathered outside the church before heading back to Sandringham House to continue their Christmas celebrations.
Concern about Princess Catherine's whereabouts has recently been trending on social media. Credit: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty
The following month, it was revealed that the Princess of Wales was set to undergo abdominal surgery. Here is a timeline of what has happened since...
January 17, 2024: Princess Catherine's "Planned Abdominal Surgery" Is Announced
Kensington Palace reveals Princess Catherine's upcoming abdominal surgery, sending shockwaves through the public. The statement assures the surgery's success and clarifies that it is not cancer-related.
"The surgery was successful, and it is expected that she will remain in the hospital for 10 to 14 days before returning home to continue her recovery," the palace shares.
January 17, 2024: Prince William Cancels His Royal Appointments
Prince William clears his schedule to be with Princess Catherine during her recovery, showing unwavering support in the wake of her surgery.
January 18, 2024: The Palace Releases Its First Statement Post-Op
Kensington Palace updates the public on Princess Catherine's condition, stating that she is "doing well", marking the first of a few updates from the Royal Family.
The statement continued: "The surgery was successful and it is expected that she will remain in hospital for ten to fourteen days, before returning home to continue her recovery.
"Based on the current medical advice, she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter."
January 18, 2024: Prince William Visits Kate in the Hospital
Prince William pays a low-key visit to Princess Catherine at the London Clinic.
Prince William, Prince of Wales seen leaving The London Clinic after visiting his wife on January 18, 2024. Credit: Max Mumby/Indigo / Getty
January 29, 2024: Princess Catherine Heads Home
After nearly two weeks in the hospital, Princess Catherine is discharged, with the palace announcing her return to Windsor for continued recovery.
"The Princess of Wales has returned home to Windsor to continue her recovery from surgery. She is making good progress," Kensington Palace noted in a statement.
February 7, 2024: William Mentions Princess Catherine's Recovery
Prince William acknowledges the public's support for Princess Catherine during a speech at a fundraising gala, expressing gratitude for the well-wishes.
February 27, 2024: William Unexpectedly Pulls Out of an Appointment
William unexpectedly cancels an appearance at his godfather's memorial service, sparking speculation about the reason behind his absence.
February 2024: 'Where Is Kate Middleton?' Starts to Trend Online
As public curiosity mounts, Kensington Palace addresses concerns over Princess Catherine's absence, emphasizing her recovery while dismissing unfounded rumors.
Circulating conspiracy theories led to her representative stating: "Kensington Palace clarified in January the expected recovery period for the princess and stated that we would only share important updates. We continue to follow that directive."
March 4, 2024: Princess Catherine Hires a New Secretary
Amidst swirling rumors, Princess Catherine appoints Lt. Col. Tom White as her private secretary, adding fuel to speculation about the Royal Family's handling of Kate's health.
March 4, 2024: Princess Catherine Is Seen for the First Time Since Her Surgery With Carole Middleton
Princess Catherine's sighting with her mother, Carole Middleton, prompts further scrutiny, with insiders questioning the palace's handling of Kate's recovery and public appearances.
March 10, 2024: Princess Catherine's Now-Infamous Mother's Day Post
Princess Catherine resurfaces on social media for Mother's Day, but controversy ensues over the heavily edited family photo, leading to retractions by major news agencies and widespread speculation.
The post was accompanied with the caption: "Thank you for your kind wishes and continued support over the last two months. Wishing everyone a Happy Mother's Day."
March 11, 2024: Princess Catherine's Photoshop Apology
In response to the photo debacle, Princess Catherine issues an apology, admitting to editing the image.
She told followers of her and Prince William's official Twitter (now X) account: "Like many amateur photographers, I do occasionally experiment with editing. I wanted to express my apologies for any confusion the family photograph we shared yesterday caused. I hope everyone celebrating had a very happy Mother’s Day. C."
March 12, 2024: What's Going on With This Year's Trooping the Colour?
Reports surface that Princess Catherine's name has been quietly removed from the Trooping the Colour attendee list, raising questions about her recovery timeline. The Ministry of Defense initially listed her as attending the event on June 8 but swiftly removed the claim.
Kensington Palace clarifies that her attendance has not been confirmed.
March 13, 2024: Another Photoshop Controversy
Newspapers publish photos of Princess Catherine and Prince William on their way to a Commonwealth Day service, sparking speculation about image manipulation. Despite concerns, photo agency Goff Photos denies doctoring any images.
March 14, 2024: Royal Update That Kate Is "Smiling" and "Upbeat"
Amid mounting speculation, insiders assure the public that Princess Catherine is in good spirits and has been seen outside the house. A royal source emphasizes Princess Catherine's resilience amidst online chatter and media scrutiny.
March 18, 2024: Princess Catherine and Prince William Spotted At Farm Shop
Photos and videos of The Prince and Princess of Wales visiting a farm ship circulate online, with Princess Catherine wearing a meaningful sweater bearing her patronage's logo. An insider revealed to the Daily Mail: "The earlier she can appear in public, the quicker cruel rumors will be banished."
Agan said: "In fact, my own social media has gone crazy as people think it is me, but I know it is not. I was at work at the time so I know that is not me. I 100 percent believe that it is Kate Middleton and William in that video."
March 19, 2024: Princess Catherine's Medical Records Were Involved in a Security Breach
Alarming reports emerge of a potential security breach involving Princess Catherine's medical records at the London Clinic. The breach raises concerns about patient privacy and prompts calls for a thorough investigation into the alleged incident.
The Daily Mail has reported that three workers are believed to have been suspended over the attempted breach.
We wish Princess Catherine the very best on her recovery journey and send our thoughts to her family at this time.
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