Kate Middleton Reveals Cancer Diagnosis & Is Undergoing Treatment

Kate Middleton and Prince William are “touched” by the response to the former’s cancer diagnosis.

In a statement released on March 23, a Kensington Palace spokesperson said that the couple “are extremely moved by the public’s warmth and support and are grateful for the understanding of their request for privacy at this time.”

Middleton revealed her diagnosis in a video posted to Kensington Royal’s X account (formerly Twitter) on March 22. The senior royal said she had been diagnosed with cancer after a planned abdominal surgery in January.

“At the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present,” she said. As a result, Middleton said her medical team advised her to undergo a round of preventative chemotherapy to prevent the cancer from spreading further. “I’m now in the early stages of that treatment,” she said.

She said the discovery of cancer came as a “shock” to her and her husband, Prince William, saying they have been “doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family.”

She went on to explain that she and William told their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, saying it “took time” for them to explain the situation “in a way that’s appropriate for them and to reassure them that I’m going to be OK.”

“As I 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 said.

Middleton also addressed when she would return to public duties, implying that the previously reported timeline of her working again after Easter may no longer be the case. “My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy, and I look forward to being back when I am able,” she said. “But for now, I must focus on making a full recovery.”

Middleton is not the only Royal Family member who’s currently battling cancer. In February, Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles III had been diagnosed with cancer and had also begun treatment. A day before the Princess announced her diagnosis, Queen Camilla gave a health update on her husband during a visit to Northern Island, saying he was “doing very well.”

Middleton concluded her March 22 video by asking for “time, space, and privacy” for her family as she completes her treatment, and sending a message of support to those whose lives are also affected by cancer.

“For everyone facing this disease in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope,” she said. “You are not alone.”