AFP William and Kate in November 2023
NOS Nieuws•gisteren, 07:23
British Princess Kate and her husband Crown Prince William have expressed their gratitude for the many messages of support they received following the announcement of her cancer diagnosis. “They are deeply touched by the love and support of the public,” a palace spokesman said. “They also appreciate the understanding of their request for privacy at this time.”
The BBC predicts that this will be the last thing the princely couple will hear from them for a while, as the family focuses on Kate’s recovery. “This message is both a thank you and a polite warning: the couple says the public part of the diagnosis is now over and they want to be left alone.”
Kate revealed in a video message on Friday that the disease was diagnosed in early January when she was in hospital for a few days for abdominal surgery. “My medical team subsequently recommended chemotherapy and I am currently in the early stages of that treatment.” The video has already been viewed more than 100 million times on X.
Absent at Easter
It is expected that Kate will not be seen in public until after her young family’s Easter holidays. It was already known that she will not attend the traditional Easter celebrations of the British royal family in Windsor. It is still unclear whether King Charles, who is also being treated for cancer, will be able to attend.
AFP Kate’s diagnosis made headlines in the UK
After her video, Charles said in a statement that he was “in close contact with his beloved daughter-in-law” and was “proud of Catherine for speaking out in this way.” Her brother-in-law Harry and sister-in-law Meghan wrote in a statement that they hope she will get peace and privacy to recover.
Privacy
In his statement of support, British Prime Minister Sunak once again lashed out at the many rumors that have recently circulated about the princess’s health. “When it comes to someone’s health, she has the right to privacy just like everyone else to pursue recovery.” He wished her recovery on behalf of the entire country.
Opposition leader Starmer also says that all the speculation has only caused Kate more stress. “Her optimistic tone and message of faith and hope are encouraging.”
US President Biden responded that he and his wife Jill “like millions of others worldwide are praying for your full recovery.”