Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, announced Friday she is currently undergoing treatment for cancer discovered after abdominal surgery.
Middleton, 42, disclosed the news in a video aired on TV networks and posted to X. The news comes only months after King Charles was diagnosed with cancer and rumors swirled about Middleton’s lack of public appearances following her surgery.
A message from Catherine, The Princess of Wales pic.twitter.com/5LQT1qGarK
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) March 22, 2024
“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,” Middleton said.
“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.”
The Princess of Wales described the difficulties brought by her cancer diagnosis to her young family. She and Prince William have three children, two sons and a daughter. Middleton did not announce the form of cancer she was diagnosed with.
“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,” Middleton continued.
“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.”
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak praised Middleton’s handling of her diagnosis and criticized the media speculation surrounding her absence from public life.
“The Princess of Wales has the love and support from the whole country as she continues her recovery,” Sunak said in a statement. “She has shown tremendous bravery with her statement today. In recent weeks she has been subjected to intense scrutiny and has been unfairly treated by certain sections of the media around the world and on social media” Sunak added.
Conspiracy theories about Middleton’s health broke out in U.S. and U.K. media because of Middleton’s lack of pubic appearances and a photoshopped image of her released by the royals for British Mother’s Day. The media frenzy revived allegations William had an affair with Lady Rose Hanbury, who strongly denied the conspiracy theory through her lawyers earlier this month.
The White House sent well wishes to Kate Middleton at the beginning of today’s press briefing. It’s unclear if the royals have spoken directly to President Biden.
“Our thoughts are with the Duchess of Cambridge and her family members and friends during this incredibly difficult time. And certainly we wish her a full recovery. And I think it’s important that we respect their privacy, especially at this time,” said White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.