“The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant.”
After months of absence from public duties, Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, revealed in a heartfelt announcement that she was diagnosed with cancer in March. She had been out of the spotlight, last appearing with her daughter Charlotte and sister Pippa Middleton at Wimbledon in July. Now, a touching video message narrated by the princess herself has been released.
The beautifully produced video shows Middleton and her family spending quality time in nature. Prince William, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis, Carole and Michael Middleton (Kate’s parents), and even the family dog, Orla, are seen playing games, walking through fields, and enjoying a day at the beach. Middleton’s soothing voice guides us through her journey with cancer.
“As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment,” she begins. “The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown. The cancer journey is complex, scary and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you. With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerabilities in a way you have never considered before, and with that, a new perspective on everything.”
The video has already garnered over a million likes and countless heartfelt comments. Jo Frost, known as “Super Nanny,” commented, “Such a beautiful reminder that our most treasured are right there by our sides. May your family continue to heal with great strength and fortitude over the coming months.”
“You are a beacon of hope and humility,” musician Karen Elson added. Many comments came from cancer survivors who shared their own experiences and offered words of encouragement.
One follower wrote, “I also finished my chemo 5 weeks ago. We all know it’s a long unknown journey ahead of us. Love each day.”
Kate’s cancer diagnosis came after abdominal surgery in January. Following advice from her medical team, she underwent preventative chemotherapy. “This, of course, came as a huge shock,” she admitted at the time. “William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family.” She praised Prince William for being a “source of comfort and reassurance.” Adding to their stress, her father-in-law, King Charles, was also diagnosed with cancer earlier this year.
Receiving a cancer diagnosis is daunting, and the caregiving role comes with its own set of challenges. Sending our best wishes to Her Royal Highness and her family during this time.
