Princess of Wales diagnosed with cancer and undergoing chemotherapy
In a statement recorded at Windsor, Catherine said she has reassured her children that she will recover
The Princess of Wales has revealed she has been diagnosed with cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy in its early stages.
In a statement recorded at Windsor by the BBC and made public at 6pm on Friday, Catherine said that her diagnosis came after undergoing major abdominal surgery in January. She added that the discovery was a shock and she and her husband, William, took time to explain the situation to their three children, George, Charlotte, and Louis.
She said: “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. 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.”
Catherine revealed she felt well and was “getting stronger every day”. She added: “It has been an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family, but I’ve had a fantastic medical team who have taken great care of me, for which I am so grateful.
Catherine said she had been able to reassure her children that she would recover. “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. Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too. As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both.”
Addressing the speculation surrounding her health and the controversy over a manipulated photograph released after her surgery, Catherine apologised for any confusion and requested privacy as she focuses on her treatment.
“We hope for understanding as we navigate this challenging time and look forward to returning to our duties once I have fully recovered,” she stated. “To those facing cancer, I urge you not to lose hope. You are not alone.”
The Palace did not disclose further details about the type of cancer.
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