The public’s warmth and support following Kate, the Princess of Wales, shocking cancer announcement has deeply moved both her and her husband, Prince William. Tributes from around the world continue to pour in, showing their solidarity during this difficult time.
After much speculation on social media regarding her health, Kate revealed in a candid video message on Friday that she is undergoing chemotherapy for cancer following major abdominal surgery. The princess expressed that the cancer discovery came as a “huge shock” and she is now in the early stages of preventative chemotherapy.
A spokesperson for Kensington Palace stated on Sunday, “The prince and princess are both enormously touched by the kind messages from people here in the UK, across the Commonwealth, and around the world in response to Her Royal Highness’ message. They are extremely moved by the public’s warmth and support and are grateful for the understanding of their request for privacy at this time.”
Support has poured in globally, with US President Joe Biden and King Charles III, who is also undergoing cancer treatment, sending their well wishes. Neither Kate nor the king have disclosed the type or stage of the cancer they are battling.
People have shown their support by visiting Kensington Palace and Windsor Castle, where the royal couple resides, leaving flowers as a sign of solidarity for the princess.
Prior to Friday, officials had only mentioned that Kate’s surgery in January was successful and that she would be away from public duties until April. This led to rumors and speculation about her absence, especially after Kate admitted to altering an official photo released for Mother’s Day, which caused a backlash and retraction by news agencies due to manipulation concerns.
Even a video showing Kate and William shopping near their home, published by The Sun and TMZ last week, did not dispel the negative coverage.
Criticism of those making outlandish conclusions continued over the weekend, with former official spokesman Paddy Harverson stating that the speculation and pressure surrounding Kate’s health and whereabouts before her video statement were unprecedented.
Despite the intense scrutiny, Harverson believed that Kate would have revealed her cancer diagnosis in the same manner, regardless of the speculation. He expressed confidence that the announcement would have been made on the same day, even without the social media frenzy and prior controversies.
