In a rare and deeply personal public statement, Catherine, Princess of Wales, announced that she is making “good progress” with her chemotherapy treatment. The former Kate Middleton revealed in March that she had been diagnosed with cancer following an abdominal surgery in January. At the time, she shared that she was in the early stages of preventative chemotherapy.
On June 14, Catherine issued her first update since disclosing her diagnosis. She revealed that her treatment is ongoing, with “a few more months” of chemotherapy ahead. “There are good days and bad days,” she said, describing the fatigue and strength fluctuations that accompany her treatment. The princess expressed gratitude for the “kind messages of support and encouragement” she has received since her announcement.
Accompanying her statement, the palace released a new photograph of Catherine, where she is seen wearing jeans and a tan blazer, looking pensive against a tree. This image encapsulates the resilience and contemplation that have marked her journey.
The princess elaborated on how she manages her daily life amid treatment. “On the days I feel well enough, it is a joy to engage with school life, spend personal time on the things that give me energy and positivity, as well as starting to do a little work from home,” she shared. She emphasized learning patience, especially with the uncertainties that come with her condition.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak responded with a message of encouragement, highlighting the inspiration many will draw from Catherine’s strength. “The Princess of Wales’ statement will be especially meaningful to those who are fighting cancer and for their families,” Sunak said on June 14. “I know the whole country is behind her.”
In her statement, Catherine also confirmed her participation in King Charles III’s birthday parade, Trooping the Colour, on June 15. She expressed her hope to join a few public engagements over the summer, acknowledging that she is “not out of the woods yet.”
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson conveyed King Charles’ delight that the princess could attend the events, which hold special significance as they honor the king’s birthday, despite it being in November. The king, who himself returned to public duties in April after undergoing cancer treatment, will be present at the celebration.
Catherine will be accompanied by her husband, Prince William, and their three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. They will participate in the parade and are expected to make a balcony appearance.
Although Catherine missed the Colonel’s Review on June 8, where James Bucknall took the salute on her behalf, her presence at Trooping the Colour marks her first royal appearance since December 2023. Despite her health challenges, she has remained engaged with her initiatives, working from home when possible and continuing her involvement with the Royal Foundation Business Taskforce for Early Childhood.
As Catherine navigates her health journey, her courage and openness provide comfort and inspiration to many facing similar battles.
Princess Kate’s full statement:
MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCESS OF WALES
I have been blown away by all the kind messages of support and encouragement over the last couple of months. It really has made the world of difference to William and me and has helped us both through some of the harder times.
I am making good progress, but as anyone going through chemotherapy will know, there are good days and bad days. On those bad days you feel weak, tired and you have to give in to your body resting. But on the good days, when you feel stronger, you want to make the most of feeling well.
My treatment is ongoing and will be for a few more months. On the days I feel well enough, it is a joy to engage with school life, spend personal time on the things that give me energy and positivity, as well as starting to do a little work from home.
I’m looking forward to attending The King’s Birthday Parade this weekend with my family and hope to join a few public engagements over the summer, but equally knowing I am not out of the woods yet.
I am learning how to be patient, especially with uncertainty. Taking each day as it comes, listening to my body, and allowing myself to take this much needed time to heal.
Thank you so much for your continued understanding, and to all of you who have so bravely shared your stories with me.