This afternoon, Kensington Palace announced Kate Middleton has cancer and released a video from the Princess of Wales herself. In the message, Kate speaks about her diagnosis, telling her children the news, and, importantly, the support of her husband, Prince William.
"Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance," the Princess of Wales says, "as is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both."
The Palace is sharing news of Kate's diagnosis today, a spokesperson said, because "The Princess wanted to share this information when she and The Prince felt it was right for them as a family." Prince William will continue carrying out his engagements, while balancing supporting Kate and their children.
The spokesperson added, "Their Royal Highnesses understand the interest this update will generate and are grateful for the public support they have received throughout this period. Kensington Palace will provide information, when the time is right, and The Princess is able to restart work and her duties. In the meantime, we would ask that the family’s privacy is respected."
Following Kate's abdominal surgery in January, Prince William postponed his public engagements to be by her side. He returned to public duties in February, but has rarely spoken about Kate's health, only saying at a gala dinner, "I'd like to take this opportunity to say thank you, also, for the kind messages of support for Catherine and for my father, especially in recent days. It means a great deal to us all."
Emily Burack (she/her) is the Senior News Editor for Town & Country, where she covers entertainment, culture, the royals, and a range of other subjects. Before joining T&C, she was the deputy managing editor at Hey Alma, a Jewish culture site. Follow her @emburack on Twitter and Instagram.
