During a recent interview in Cape Town, South Africa, where he was attending the Earthshot Prize Awards, Prince William offered a glimpse into the challenges faced by the royal family in 2023. The Prince, known for his stoic demeanor, candidly spoke of the emotional weight of both his father, King Charles, and his wife, Catherine, Princess of Wales, battling cancer.
“It’s been a tough year,” Prince William admitted. “It has been a challenging year for everyone, but especially for the family, trying to juggle everything and keep things going.”
Catherine, Princess of Wales, underwent surgery for an abdominal condition in January and was diagnosed with cancer in March. She went public with her diagnosis in September, revealing that she had completed her chemotherapy treatment. Prince William was visibly supportive throughout his wife’s ordeal, choosing to prioritize family time and scaling back on some public engagements.
King Charles, too, faced health challenges. Diagnosed with prostate cancer during the course of treatment for an enlarged prostate, he has been continuing his duties while undergoing treatment.
“I’m incredibly proud of my wife, how she’s handled this year. I’m also incredibly proud of my father, how he’s handled it. But as a family, it’s been a pretty tough year,” Prince William shared.
In a testament to her strength, Catherine, Princess of Wales, made her first public appearance since completing treatment on October 11th. She has also reportedly resumed her gym routine. Although she didn’t accompany Prince William on his South African visit, he assured reporters she was “doing well.”
When a reporter remarked on Prince William’s own relaxed appearance, he replied, “This year, you haven’t been able to switch off at all, so it’s interesting you say that. But you just have to keep going and you have to get on with it. I enjoy my job and I’m able to balance that with family life, so I try to keep that going in my own way.”
The royal family’s open and honest discussion about their health challenges provides a poignant reminder of the shared human experience. Prince William’s remarks reveal not only the strength of the family but also their ability to navigate adversity with grace and determination.