Amid his own battle with the disease, King Charles has responded to Kate Middleton’s cancer diagnosis. The Princess of Wales announced on March 22, 2024, that she was undergoing “preventative chemotherapy” after abdominal surgery in January.
According to The Times of England Royals Editor, “a BP spokesman says that the King, who is also receiving cancer treatment, is ‘so proud of Catherine for her courage in speaking as she did’ and has ‘remained in the closest contact with his beloved daughter-in-law throughout the past weeks’ since they were both in hospital,” Roya Nikkah tweeted, adding, “both the King and the Queen ‘will continue to offer their love and support to the whole family through this difficult time’.”
“He has always had a very good bond with her. I don’t think it is presumptuous to say that she is like the daughter he never had,” royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith told People. “He shares with William an impulse to protect her. They are in this together, Kate and the King.”
Another source told the publication: “two patients going through a common health experience,” and the two :are bound to have a close connection… I imagine there was some comfort [for Kate] in seeing… that it was possible to balance some private information without there being an imperative to share all.”
In an emotional video statement published on Twitter, Catherine revealed: “In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London, and at the time it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. The surgery was successful. However, tests after the operation and cancer had been present My medical team, therefore, advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy. And I’m now in the early stages of that treatment.
“This, of course, came as a huge shock. William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family. As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment,” the statement continued.
“But most importantly, it has taken us time to explain everything to George Charlotte, and Louis in a way that’s appropriate for them and to reassure them that I’m going to be okay. As I’ve said to them, I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal in my mind, body, and spirit.”
“Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance, too, as is the love support, and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us, both. We hope that you’ll understand that as a family, we now need some time space, and privacy while I complete my treatments.”
She concluded: “My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to being back when I’m able. But for now, I must focus on making a full recovery. At this time, I’m also thinking of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer, For everyone facing this disease in whatever form. Please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone.”
It comes after the King himself was diagnosed with cancer in January. While receiving treatment for an enlarged prostate, “a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer,” the royal statement said.
“His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties. Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual.”
The statement continued: “The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure. He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible. His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”
