In a shocking announcement this afternoon, Kensington Palace confirmed that Kate Middleton has cancer.
The Princess of Wales also released a video message, in which she speaks about her health for the first time, and the impact her diagnosis has had on her three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
"As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment," she says in the video message. "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. 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."
Later in her message, Kate says, "We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment."
This echoes what Kensington Palace said in January, when they shared news of her abdominal surgery. "The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate," the Palace said in a statement. "She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible; and her wish that her personal medical information remains private."
T&C understands that the children going on their Easter break factored into the decision for Kate to reveal her diagnosis now, as Prince William and Kate wanted to be able to tell their children at a time that was right for them, and to allow them to process the news before it was shared publicly.
A Palace spokesperson further said today about her cancer diagnosis that they "will not be sharing any further private medical information. The Princess has a right to medical privacy, as we all do."
Emily Burack (she/her) is the Senior News Editor for Town & Country, where she covers entertainment, culture, the royals, and a range of other subjects. Before joining T&C, she was the deputy managing editor at Hey Alma, a Jewish culture site. Follow her @emburack on Twitter and Instagram.
