Princess Kate declared with emotional words in a video message that she was suffering from cancer. She was at the beginning of her treatment, said the Princess. The declaration verbatim.
I wanted to take this opportunity to personally thank you for all the wonderful messages of support and understanding as I recover from surgery. It’s been an incredibly tough few months for our entire family, but I had a fantastic team of doctors who took excellent care of me, for which I’m very grateful.
In January I had major abdominal surgery in London and at the time it was assumed that I did not have cancer. The operation was successful. However, tests after surgery revealed that cancer was present. My medical team therefore advised me to undergo preventive chemotherapy and I am now in the initial phase of this treatment.
This was of course a huge shock and William and I have done everything we could to process and resolve this matter privately for the sake of our young family. As you can imagine, this took time. I needed time to recover from major surgery in order to begin treatment. Most importantly, we needed time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way they could understand and to reassure them that I would get well again.
I told them that I was doing well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that help me get healthy – in my mind, my body, and my soul. Having William by my side is also a great source of comfort and reassurance. This also extends to the love, support and kindness that so many of you have shown me. This means so much to both of us.
We hope you understand that as a family we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment. I have always enjoyed my work and I look forward to getting back to it when I am able, but for now I need to focus on my full recovery.
At this time I also think of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer. To everyone facing this disease, no matter what form it takes, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone.
Source: Kensington Palace
