In a touching display of familial support, King Charles visited Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, following her announcement that she had completed her course of chemotherapy. The King, who revealed his own cancer diagnosis in February, traveled from London to Windsor on March 21st to spend time with his daughter-in-law.
Sources close to the Royal Family revealed that King Charles was deeply moved by Kate’s cancer diagnosis and sought to offer his support during this difficult time. “It is highly unusual for just the two of them to sit down together like this. The King had already been made aware that the woman he calls ‘my beloved daughter-in-law’ had cancer… The King left his lunch feeling very emotional,” a source told The Royal Observer. They emphasized the strong bond between the two, stating, “They are very close and he thinks of Catherine as his daughter. There is no doubt there is a lot they can share and can use each other for support during their own deeply personal cancer battles.”
Since Kate shared her health update on Instagram on March 22nd, the Prince and Princess of Wales have received well wishes from around the world. A spokesperson for the couple expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support, stating, “The Prince and Princess are both enormously touched by the kind messages from people here in the U.K., across the Commonwealth and around the world in response to Her Royal Highness’ message.” They added, “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.”
In her Instagram post on September 9th, Kate announced the completion of her chemotherapy treatment. “I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment,” she wrote. In her video message, she candidly shared the challenges faced by the family over the past nine months: “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. The cancer journey is complex, scary and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you.”
Kate also reflected on the personal growth she experienced during this time, stating, “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.”
Looking ahead, Kate expressed her determination to focus on her health while gradually resuming public duties. “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. I am however looking forward to being back at work and undertaking a few more public engagements in the coming months when I can,” she said. The princess last appeared in public at the Wimbledon men’s final in July.
