Catherine, the Princess of Wales, has confirmed she is battling cancer after taking time away from the limelight since the start of the year.
The royal, 42, had undergone major abdominal surgery in January, which the Palace had previously said was "planned" and "not related to cancer".
However, following intense speculation from the public, the Princess shared a video message on Friday confirming that while doctors did not initially believe she had cancer, it was later found as a result of the surgery.
She is now undergoing preventative chemotherapy and is focused on making a full recovery.
Watch Princess Catherine's message below:
Following her surgery in January, the Palace initially stated that Princess Catherine was expected to return to public duties after Easter, however, the Princess has since confirmed that she will return "when she is able" after completing chemotherapy.
Here is a timeline of what has happened since her most recent royal engagement:
December 25, 2023: Most Recent Royal EngagementShe made her most recent official royal engagement at Christmas, taking part in the traditional walk at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene in Norfolk, accompanied by her husband William and their children Louis, Charlotte, and George, as well as other members of the royal family in attendance for the service.
Afterward, the family took time to greet well-wishers gathered outside the church before heading back to Sandringham House to continue their Christmas celebrations.
Kensington Palace reveals Princess Catherine's upcoming abdominal surgery, sending shockwaves through the public. The statement confirmed that the surgery went as planned, and was "not cancer-related."
"The surgery was successful, and it is expected that she will remain in the hospital for 10 to 14 days before returning home to continue her recovery," the palace shares.
January 17, 2024: Prince William Cancels His Royal AppointmentsPrince William clears his schedule to be with Princess Catherine during her recovery, showing unwavering support in the wake of her surgery.
January 18, 2024: The Palace Releases Its First Statement Post-OpKensington Palace updated the public on Princess Catherine's condition, stating that she is "doing well", marking the first of a few updates from the Royal Family.
The statement continued: "The surgery was successful and it is expected that she will remain in hospital for ten to fourteen days, before returning home to continue her recovery.
"Based on the current medical advice, she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter."
January 18, 2024: Prince William Visits Kate in the HospitalPrince William pays a low-key visit to Princess Catherine at the London Clinic.
After nearly two weeks in the hospital, Princess Catherine is discharged, with the palace announcing her return to Windsor for continued recovery.
"The Princess of Wales has returned home to Windsor to continue her recovery from surgery. She is making good progress," Kensington Palace noted in a statement.
February 7, 2024: William Mentions Princess Catherine's RecoveryPrince William acknowledges the public's support for Princess Catherine during a speech at a fundraising gala, expressing gratitude for the well-wishes.
February 27, 2024: William Unexpectedly Pulls Out of an AppointmentWilliam unexpectedly cancels an appearance at his godfather's memorial service, sparking speculation about the reason behind his absence.
As public curiosity mounts, Kensington Palace addresses concerns over Princess Catherine's absence, emphasizing her recovery while dismissing unfounded rumors.
Circulating conspiracy theories led to her representative stating: "Kensington Palace clarified in January the expected recovery period for the princess and stated that we would only share important updates. We continue to follow that directive."
March 4, 2024: Princess Catherine Hires A New SecretaryAmidst swirling rumors, Princess Catherine appoints Lt. Col. Tom White as her private secretary, adding fuel to speculation about the Royal Family's handling of Kate's health.
March 4, 2024: Princess Catherine Is Seen for the First Time Since Her Surgery With Carole MiddletonPrincess Catherine's sighting with her mother, Carole Middleton, prompts further scrutiny, with insiders questioning the palace's handling of Kate's recovery and public appearances.
March 10, 2024: Princess Catherine's Now-Infamous Mother's Day PostPrincess Catherine resurfaces on social media for Mother's Day, but controversy ensues over the heavily edited family photo, leading to retractions by major news agencies and widespread speculation.
The post was accompanied by the caption: "Thank you for your kind wishes and continued support over the last two months. Wishing everyone a Happy Mother's Day."
March 11, 2024: Princess Catherine's Photoshop ApologyIn response to the photo debacle, Princess Catherine issues an apology, admitting to editing the image.
She told followers of her and Prince William's official Twitter (now X) account: "Like many amateur photographers, I do occasionally experiment with editing. I wanted to express my apologies for any confusion the family photograph we shared yesterday caused. I hope everyone celebrating had a very happy Mother’s Day. C."
March 12, 2024: What's Going On With This Year's Trooping The Colour?Reports surface that Princess Catherine's name has been quietly removed from the Trooping the Colour attendee list, raising questions about her recovery timeline. The Ministry of Defense initially listed her as attending the event on June 8 but swiftly removed the claim.
Kensington Palace clarifies that her attendance has not been confirmed.
March 13, 2024: Another Photoshop ControversyNewspapers publish photos of Princess Catherine and Prince William on their way to a Commonwealth Day service, sparking speculation about image manipulation. Despite concerns, photo agency Goff Photos denies doctoring any images.
March 14, 2024: Royal Update That Kate Is "Smiling" And "Upbeat"Amid mounting speculation, insiders assure the public that Princess Catherine is in good spirits and has been seen outside the house. A royal source emphasizes Princess Catherine's resilience amidst online chatter and media scrutiny.
March 18, 2024: Princess Catherine and Prince William Spotted At Farm ShopPhotos and videos of The Prince and Princess of Wales visiting a farm ship circulate online, with Princess Catherine wearing a meaningful sweater bearing her patronage's logo. An insider revealed to the Daily Mail: "The earlier she can appear in public, the quicker cruel rumors will be banished."
Despite conspiracy theories, Princess Catherine impersonator Heidi Agan confirms the authenticity of the footage, urging an end to wild speculations.
Agan said: "In fact, my own social media has gone crazy as people think it is me, but I know it is not. I was at work at the time so I know that is not me. I 100 percent believe that it is Kate Middleton and William in that video."
March 19, 2024: Princess Catherine's Medical Records Were Involved In A Security BreachAlarming reports emerge of a potential security breach involving Princess Catherine's medical records at the London Clinic. The breach raises concerns about patient privacy and prompts calls for a thorough investigation into the alleged incident.
The Daily Mail has reported that three workers are believed to have been suspended over the attempted breach.
March 22, 2024: Princess Catherine Shares A Video Message Confirming She Has CancerPrincess Catherine opened up about her diagnosis in a video message to the public, confirming that cancer was found as a result of her major abdominal surgery in January.
She revealed that she was in the early stages of preventative chemotherapy and asked for time and privacy to deal with her health battle.
The decision was made to announce the news on Friday, March 22, as the couple's children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, finished school for Easter on that day, so would be able to avoid the increased attention following the announcement.
Her message was positive as she revealed she was feeling "well" and is focused on "making a full recovery".
We wish Princess Catherine the very best on her recovery journey and send our thoughts to her family at this time.
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