After weeks of online speculation about her health and whereabouts, Kate Middleton revealed in a personal video message on Friday that she is being treated for cancer. Now the Princess of Wales is focused on making a full recovery with the support of her family.
“She has the inner strength, the support of her husband and her amazing family, so she can focus on what’s important, which is getting her strength back,” Ailsa Anderson, former spokeswoman for the late Queen Elizabeth, tells PEOPLE exclusively for this week’s cover story.
In a self-written speech announcing the cancer news, Princess Kate, 42, said having Prince William, 41, by her side was a “great source of comfort and security”. Meanwhile, their three children — Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 8, and Prince Louis, 5 — were instrumental in the timing of her message.
“It took us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that was suitable for them and to reassure them that I would be fine,” she said. “Like I told them; I’m fine and I’m getting stronger every day focusing on things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirit.”
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The family of five will spend the next few weeks together privately while the children are on school holidays, missing the tradition of attending Easter church service at St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle with the royals this weekend.
Kate Middleton.
When Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis return to the classroom, Prince William is expected to resume public duties. “The Prince will continue to maintain a balance between supporting his wife and family and maintaining his official duties as he has done since the beginning of the year,” a Kensington Palace spokesman said.
Meanwhile, Princess Kate will remain largely out of the public eye during her treatment, although she may join events when she has the chance. “The princess will return to official duties when her medical team approves. She is in good spirits and is focused on a full recovery,” a palace spokesman said on Friday.
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Kate Middleton. Why did Kate Middleton wait until George, Charlotte and Louis were out of school to share the cancer news
With King Charles, 75, also largely out of the public eye while also undergoing cancer treatment, the rest of the royal family will continue to emphasize that they represent the monarchy. Queen Camilla, 76, has had a busy schedule since news of her husband’s health broke, while Princess Anne, Prince Edward and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh are also continuing their royal duties.
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Those closest to Kate say they hope the Princess of Wales will come back stronger than ever when she is ready.
“[The royal family] is vulnerable at the moment, and there will be an even greater appreciation that they are human beings with weaknesses like the rest of us,” says the former palace aide. “They are so dedicated to their roles. I think you’ll see when Kate fully recovers, she’ll come back even more passionate.”
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Kate Middleton is coming to Wimbledon on July 15, 2023.
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Source: HIS Education