Achi news desk-
Kate Middleton released a new video on Friday revealing that she has been diagnosed with cancer.
The type of cancer is not specified.
“In January, I had major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, my condition was thought to be non-cancerous,” Kate said in the video, which was filmed by BBC Studios and shared with HuffPost. “The surgery was successful. However, tests after the operation found that cancer was present.”
“My medical team therefore advised that I should follow a course of preventive chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment,” he explained.
“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 a while to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment,” he continued. “But, most importantly, it’s 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 okay.”
“As I’ve told them, I’m healthy and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me get better, in my mind, my body and my spirits,” Kate continued.
“Having William by my side is also a great source of comfort and security. As is the love, support and kindness shown by so many of you. It means so much to both of us. We hope you will understand that as a family we need some time, space and privacy now while I complete my treatment.”
Kate signed off by saying she is looking forward to being back at work when she can, but is now focusing on “making a full recovery.”
“Right now, I’m also thinking about everyone whose lives have been affected by cancer. To all who face this disease, in whatever form, do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone,” he said.
The update follows endless speculation about the Princess of Wales’ abdominal surgery, subsequent absence from public engagements and controversy over ‘photoshopping’.
The palace first revealed that Kate had undergone surgery on January 16, and said at the time that the royal was likely to stay in hospital for 10 to 14 days.
“Based on current medical advice, he is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter,” the palace shared with HuffPost in a statement on January 17.
At the time, it was believed that the princess’s condition was not cancerous.
In line with the original timeline, the palace shared on January 29 that Kate had returned home after nearly two weeks in the hospital “to continue her recovery.”
The palace added that the princess was “making good progress.”
Almost a month later, on February 29, the palace shut down rumors with a statement reiterating Kate’s original plan for returning to public functions.
“Kensington Palace made it clear in January the timetables for the princess’s recovery and we will only provide substantive updates. That lead stands,” the palace shared with HuffPost, adding that Kate is “doing well.”
Although the statement did little to quell the social media frenzy, days later on March 4, Kate was photographed by paparazzi riding in a car with her mother, Carole Middleton.
It was the first public visit by the royal since December 25, 2023, when he attended the Christmas church service at Sandringham alongside members of the royal family.
Kensington Palace later released the first photo of the royal and her three children on March 10 to mark Mother’s Day in the UK, which was quickly overshadowed by a digital manipulation scandal.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Mark Cuthbert via Getty Images
