A Kensington Palace spokesperson said the Princess of Wales and her husband Prince William have been “deeply touched” by the messages of support they have received since announcing their cancer diagnosis.
Duchess Kate said on Friday that she was undergoing preventive chemotherapy after tests revealed she had cancer after major abdominal surgery in January.
The 42-year-old heir to the throne’s wife called the cancer discovery a “huge shock.” The news is another health blow to the British royal family. King Charles is also undergoing treatment for cancer.
Duchess Kate’s statement in a video message filmed at Windsor Castle on Wednesday sparked an outpouring of support from well-wishers.
A Kensington Palace spokesperson said in a statement on Saturday: “The Prince and Princess have been deeply touched by the kind messages they have received from people here in the UK, the Commonwealth and around the world in response to the Prince’s message.” said.
“They have been extremely touched by the warmth and support of the public and appreciate their understanding of their request for privacy at this time.”
It is unclear how long Kate will be undergoing treatment, but it is understood that she intends to follow medical advice and attend events where possible, although there is no indication she will return to full-time duties.
Prince William will continue to balance supporting his wife and family with maintaining his royal duties, as he has done since his surgery.
The prince is expected to return to royal duties after his children return to school after the Easter holidays. The royal couple will not be attending the traditional royal Easter service at St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle, but the king hopes to attend with the queen when health permits.
According to the Telegraph, large family gatherings and religious services are unlikely to take place as Prince Charles has suspended all public royal duties.
According to the palace, Duchess Kate started chemotherapy treatment in late February. It is believed that her announcement of the news was timed to coincide with children being dismissed from school for the Easter holidays.
The palace said it wanted to provide a medical update to end speculation caused by Duchess Kate being admitted to a London clinic on January 16 for major abdominal surgery. did. At the time, the palace declined to confirm the details of Kate’s treatment, but said her condition was non-cancerous.
Speculation further accelerated earlier this month when some of the world’s biggest film agencies accused the Princess of Wales’s first official photo released after surgery to be recalled because it had been doctored.
Cooperation with Reuters and the Press Association
