After lots of online speculation and theories, Kate Middleton has spoken out for the first time since this discourse about her not being seen publicly for months all began, explaining that she has cancer.
In a video posted to The Prince and Princess of Wales X page, Middleton explained her health update, noting that after abdominal surgery, which the public was aware of, she later found out through tests that she has cancer:
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.
This announcement comes a few days after Middleton allegedly made her first public appearance, and in the weeks following the highly talked about altered family photo that caused even more conspiracy theories and jokes about the Princess of Wales not being seen for months.
Continuing her statement, Middleton did not address the online discourse, and she explained that her medical team has recommended a "course of preventative chemotherapy." She's in the early stages of her treatment now.
The Princess of Wales explained that the last few months have been “incredibly tough” for her family. Along with Middleton’s diagnosis, King Charles also has cancer, and in January they were both hospitalized – the princess for abdominal surgery, and the king for an enlarged prostate. Following that announcement, Prince Harry traveled to the UK for a private conversation with his father. Along with that, rumors have swirled about both Charles and Kate’s health, making this situation something that has grabbed the world’s attention.
Addressing why she hasn’t really been seen publicly, Middleton said she's been trying to handle this privately with her family. Telling viewers about how she’s been working through this diagnosis with Prince William and her children, she said:
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’s appropriate for them and to reassure them that I’m going to be OK.
Reiterating their request for privacy, Middleton said that “time, space and privacy” are needed right now as she goes through treatment.
The princess said she is "well," and she's focusing on ways to "heal." You can see her full statement below:
A message from Catherine, The Princess of Wales pic.twitter.com/5LQT1qGarKMarch 22, 2024
As this situation develops, we’ll be sure to keep you posted.
