Princess Kate ‘enormously touched’ by messages of support following cancer diagnosis

By Reuters   March 24, 2024 | 01:07 am PT
Princess Kate ‘enormously touched’ by messages of support following cancer diagnosis
Princess Kate in Ilchester, U.K., September 2023. Photo by AFP
Catherine, the Princess of Wales, and her husband Prince William have been “enormously touched” by the messages of support received since she announced her cancer diagnosis, a Kensington Palace spokesperson said on March 23.

A day earlier, the Princess, who is popularly known as Kate, revealed that she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy after tests done following her major abdominal surgery in January revealed that cancer had been present.

The 42-year-old wife of Prince William, who is heir to the throne, called the cancer discovery a "huge shock". The news comes as a fresh health blow to the British royal family as King Charles is also undergoing treatment for cancer.

Her statement via a video message, which was filmed at Windsor Castle on March 20, triggered an outpouring of support from well-wishers.

"The Prince and Princess are both enormously touched by the kind messages from people here in the United Kingdom, across the Commonwealth and around the world in response to Her Royal Highness’ message," the spokesperson said in a statement.

"They are extremely moved by the public’s warmth and support and are grateful for the understanding of their request for privacy at this time."

The announcement dominated British newspaper front pages over the weekend, with supportive messages combined with criticism of those who had speculated about her health in recent weeks.

Members of the public also showed their support.

"Seeing the extraordinary dignity which Kate has shown, and her trying to hold together the royal family, I hope that now what the media will do is to give her and her family the privacy and respect that they deserve," solicitor Simon Davis, 64, said outside Kensington Palace park.

Ms Sarah Macdonald-Brown, a 50-year-old art gallery owner, said: "It’s good that she said what’s going on because I think it helps a lot of people who experience that."

Tourist Karen Ferguson, 42, also showed her admiration for the former Kate Middleton.

"It’s great that she came out and made a public statement so that people know she’s doing OK and what’s going on," she said.

One of the most personal messages of support came from the Princess’ brother, Mr James Middleton.

He posted a childhood photo of him and his sister on Instagram and wrote: "Over the years, we have climbed many mountains together. As a family, we will climb this one with you too."

 
 
go to top