Catherine, the Princess of Wales, revealed she has cancer.
The 42-year-old made the announcement Friday in a video message, People magazine reported.
This news comes after months of speculation over her health after she had planned abdominal surgery in January.
“At the time, it was understood that the issue was non-cancerous, but post-operative tests ‘found cancer had been present,’” People reported. “The type of cancer was not revealed.”
A Kensington Palace spokesperson said, “We will not be sharing any further private medical information. The Princess has a right to medical privacy, as we all do.”
Kate thanked her well-wishers in the video, adding her recovery has been “an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family.”
“In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London, and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous,” she said. “The surgery was successful. However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present. My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy, and I am now in the early stages of that treatment.”
She added she and her husband, Prince William “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.”
“But, most importantly, it has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be OK,” she said referring to her three children. “As I have 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 spirits.”
She added, “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 will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment. My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy, and I look forward to being back when I am able — but for now, I must focus on making a full recovery.”
“At this time, I am 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,” she said. “You are not alone.”
After spending 13 days at The London Clinic, Kate has been out of the public eye. Kensington Palace initially said she would not return to royal duties until Easter.
However, that did not quell conspiracy theories regarding her health and whereabouts. This included a Mother’s Day photo that was riddled with editing errors and eventually was pulled from media services.
Kate apologized for “any confusion” over the picture.
Princess Kate started the course of preventative chemotherapy in late February, according to a palace spokesperson.
Even though she was initially expected to return to public engagements at Easter, the spokesperson said, “The Princess will return to official duties when she is cleared to do so by her medical team. She is in good spirits and is focused on making a full recovery.”
Meanwhile, Prince William “will continue to balance supporting his wife and family and maintaining his official duties as he has done since the start of the year,” People reported.
