The Princess of Wales revealed that she has been diagnosed with cancer and is currently undergoing early stages of chemotherapy.
Catherine spoke in a “personal message” recorded at the gardens of Windsor Castle by BBC, sharing her surprise at learning about her condition after undergoing significant abdominal surgery in January.
There have been excessive rumors about her, and the news on Friday caused Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer to denounce the sensational and unjust gossip of the past few weeks.
Catherine shared that she and her spouse, Prince William, required time to clarify the situation to their three offspring, George (10), Charlotte (8), and Louis (5).
“I was completely taken aback by this news, and William and I are doing our best to handle and deal with it discreetly for the well-being of our young family,” she stated.
I have needed a considerable amount of time for this process. My surgery and subsequent treatment have required recovery time. However, the most crucial aspect of this process has been taking the time to appropriately explain everything to my children, George, Charlotte, and Louis. It was important to reassure them that I will be alright.
King Charles, 75, who is also being treated for cancer and was in hospital at the same time as Catherine in January, spoke of his pride at her “courage in speaking as she did”.
After spending time in the hospital together, the royal family has kept in close touch with [His Majesty]’s daughter-in-law over the past few weeks, according to a statement from Buckingham Palace. Both [His Majesty] and [Her Majesty] will continue to provide love and support to the entire family during this challenging period.
The couple, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, expressed their hopes for Kate and her family’s well-being and recovery, and respectfully wished for them to have privacy and tranquility during this time.
The palace announced that Catherine began her chemotherapy in late February. It is believed that she chose to reveal this information to the public at the same time as the children’s school break for Easter.
Catherine, wearing a white sweater with black stripes, delivered a statement while sitting on a bench. Her message, which was captured on Wednesday by BBC Studios, the commercial production and distribution entity of the corporation, lasted for two minutes and 16 seconds. Despite speaking confidently, she briefly looked down while discussing her family’s reaction to the news.
The palace announced that Catherine desired to give a health update to dispel any rumors caused by her admittance to the London Clinic on January 16th for significant abdominal surgery. Initially, the palace declined to reveal the reason for Catherine’s treatment, but stated that it was not related to cancer.
Catherine disclosed that the cancer was discovered post-surgery. In her public statement on Friday, she expressed gratitude for the support messages and shared that she is feeling good and improving day by day.
She stated that the past couple of months have been extremely difficult for her family, but she is grateful for the exceptional medical team who has provided her with excellent care.
I had a major surgery in London in January for a condition that was believed to be non-cancerous. The surgery was a success, but further tests revealed the presence of cancer. As per my medical team’s recommendation, I am now beginning chemotherapy as a preventive measure.
Catherine told her children that she would get better despite her diagnosis. She explained, “I am doing well and getting stronger each day by focusing on things that will aid in my healing – my mind, body, and spirit.” She also mentioned that having William by her side gives her comfort and reassurance. The love, support, and kindness shown by many people mean a lot to both of them.
William’s decision not to attend his godfather’s memorial service in late February was due to a personal matter, namely, his cancer diagnosis.
The couple of nobles, who are approaching their 13th marriage anniversary in the upcoming month, have faced several weeks of hearsay about Catherine’s well-being. The conjecture intensified when the leading photo agencies around the globe withdrew the first official picture of the Duchess of Cambridge, which was released two months after her stomach surgery, due to allegations of manipulation.
Shortly afterwards, she publicly apologized for causing “confusion” and admitted to being the one who digitally altered the Mother’s Day family photo.
On Friday, Catherine issued a statement requesting time and privacy to finish her treatment. She expressed her anticipation for resuming her royal duties.
She stated that her family needs time, space, and privacy while she undergoes treatment. Although she enjoys her work, she must prioritize her recovery for the time being.
At this moment, my thoughts are with those who have been impacted by cancer. To anyone battling this illness, in any capacity, please hold onto your faith and hope. You are not alone.
The palace did not disclose any additional details regarding the cancer type that was found.
Sunak criticized the way the princess was treated by certain parts of the global media and on social media in response to the announcement.
Starmer stated that being diagnosed with cancer is extremely jarring. However, he can only imagine the additional pressure of receiving such news during a time of intense speculation.
Source: theguardian.com
