The video comes just over two months after the palace announced Kate had undergone planned abdominal surgery.
In an emotional video statement released on Friday, Kate Middleton provided an update on her health following major surgery. Filmed in Windsor, the Princess of Wales expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and understanding she has received during her recovery period.
In the video, Kate began by thanking well-wishers for their messages of support during what she described as an "incredibly tough couple of months" for her family. She expressed her appreciation for the medical team that has cared for her during her ordeal.
Kate said the news of the cancer diagnosis came as a "huge shock" to the royal family, with Kate and her husband, Prince William, endeavoring to manage the situation privately for the sake of their young children -- Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 8, and Prince Louis, 5. She emphasized the importance of taking time to explain the situation to her children appropriately and reassuring them of her well-being.
Despite the challenges, Kate expressed her determination to focus on her recovery, stating that she is "getting stronger every day" by nurturing her mind, body and spirit. She acknowledged the support of Prince William, describing his presence as a "great source of comfort" and reassurance.
Addressing the public, Kate appealed for understanding, privacy and space for her family during this challenging time. She expressed her eagerness to return to her work once she has made a full recovery.
In a touching moment, she extended her thoughts to all those affected by cancer, urging them not to lose faith or hope, and assuring them that they are "not alone."
Below is a full transcript:
I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you, personally, for all the wonderful messages of support and for your understanding whilst I have been recovering from surgery.
It has been an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family, but I've had a fantastic medical team who have taken great care of me, for which I am so grateful.
In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous.
The surgery was successful. However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present. My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment.
This of course came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family.
As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment. 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.
Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too. As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means much to us both.
We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment. My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to being back when I am able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery.
At this time, I am also thinking of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer. For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone.
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