Kate, Princess of Wales, announces she has cancer

(CNN) — Kate, Princess of Wales, revealed on Friday that she has been diagnosed with cancer and is in the “early stages” of treatment.

This announcement, which the princess described as a “huge shock,” came via a video message. The news comes two months after Kate temporarily stepped away from public life following what Kensington Palace reported at the time was surgery for a non-cancerous abdominal condition.

Kate (42 years old), who is married to the heir to the British throne, Prince William, said: “In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London, and it was believed at the time that my condition was non-cancerous.”

The surgery was successful. However, tests after the operation showed cancer. Therefore, my medical team recommended that I undergo preventive chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of this treatment.

Kate, Princess of Wales

“William and I have done our best to address and manage this privately for our little family,” Kate continued.

He added: “As you can imagine, this has taken time. It took me some time to recover from major surgery so I could begin treatment. But most importantly, we took the time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that was right for them, and to reassure them that I would be okay.

Kate said she told them she was “doing well and getting stronger every day by focusing on things that will help me heal; In my mind, body and soul.”
She praised Prince William for being by her side, describing him as “a great source of comfort and reassurance,” as well as for the support he received from the public.

“We hope you understand that as a family we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment. My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to returning when I can, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery.” announced the princess.

He ended his impassioned message by saying that he was also thinking of “all those whose lives have been touched by cancer.”

Kate concluded by saying: “To everyone facing this disease, in any way, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone.”

This announcement represents a devastating blow to the British monarchy, as King Charles III is currently undergoing treatment for an unspecified cancer, which Buckingham Palace announced early last February.

The princess's cancer update comes after Kate underwent successful abdominal surgery on January 16. After the intervention, she remained in a London hospital for 13 days and, on medical recommendation, stayed away from public events while she recovered.

Kate was seen in public for the first time since her surgery, as she visited a farm with her husband, Prince William, last weekend.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced that the Princess of Wales has “the love and support of the entire country.” Sunak said on social media on Friday that Kate had shown “tremendous courage in her statement” and that his prayers were with her, “particularly with her three children.”

News under development…