2024-09-10 13:30:02
The British royal underwent major abdominal surgery in January that revealed the presence of cancer.
Catherine, the Princess of Wales, has said that she has finished her course of preventative chemotherapy for cancer.
On Monday, she said the treatment had given her a new perspective and made her grateful for “simply loving and being loved”.
Kate, 42, wife of heir-to-the-throne Prince William, underwent major abdominal surgery in January that revealed she had cancer. She began treatment when it was discovered.
On Monday, the British royal released a video update on her condition.
“As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment,” she said.
“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,” she added.
In the video, which was filmed in Norfolk, eastern England last month, the princess looked well and healthy.
The film showed the family walking through woods, carrying a cricket bat and ball, and Kate lying on a beach next to William. In other footage, she was shown pushing her youngest son Louis on a swing and being joined by her parents as they played a board game.
She said she and William were also grateful for the global messages of support they had received, adding she was looking forward to returning to public duties when she was able, although her programme for the remainder of the year would remain light.
“Doing what I can to stay cancer free is now my focus. Although I have finished chemotherapy, my path to healing and full recovery is long and I must continue to take each day as it comes,” said the princess, often referred to by her maiden name Kate Middleton.
“Despite all that has gone before, I enter this new phase of recovery with a renewed sense of hope and appreciation of life … To all those who are continuing their own cancer journey – I remain with you, side by side, hand in hand. Out of darkness, can come light, so let that light shine bright.”
Kate’s condition was first publicly disclosed in a video message in March after weeks of speculation on social media about her whereabouts and health since she was admitted to hospital in January for unspecified abdominal surgery.
“The cancer journey is complex, scary and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you,” Kate noted on Monday.
“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.
“This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted. Of simply loving and being loved.”
