Kate Middleton speaks out on difficult time after cancer treatment
Kate Middleton revealed in January that she is in remission after undergoing treatment for an unnamed type of cancer. Having been declared cancer-free last autumn, the Princess of Wales has since reemerged gradually into public life—attending events like Trooping the Colour and accompanying her husband, Prince William, on various engagements—while deliberately pacing her return.
According to royal correspondent Rebecca English, those close to William and Catherine say the ordeal has profoundly altered their outlook. The “trauma” of her diagnosis has prompted the couple to reorder their priorities, placing family at the heart of their commitments rather than reverting to their previous schedules. “Cancer changes your perspective,” a source told the Daily Mail. “Over the past year, the decisions they’ve made clearly show that their children and family life come first. They’re still devoted to duty and service, but they’re finding new ways to balance those roles with parenthood.”
During a June 2 visit to Colchester Hospital in Essex, Kate met cancer patients in a restorative garden designed for those undergoing treatment and spoke candidly about the challenges of the recovery phase. “You put on a brave face during treatment and expect to bounce straight back to normal once it’s over,” she said. “But the period afterwards is incredibly difficult. You’re no longer under constant clinical care, yet you can’t function at home as you once did. Having someone to guide you through that post-treatment phase is invaluable.”
The Princess described recovery as “life-changing,” emphasizing that finding a “new normal” takes time and is full of unexpected ups and downs. “It’s a rollercoaster, not as smooth as you’d expect,” she added. Kate has praised the dedication of doctors and nurses throughout her journey and remains committed to supporting others facing similar struggles.
Though she hasn’t resumed a full public schedule, insiders say she and William are quietly planning for the future. A close friend revealed to People Magazine that the couple is already “finessing what works and what doesn’t” as they assemble teams in preparation for their eventual ascension—whenever that may occur. For now, Catherine continues to focus on her health and family, embracing each step forward with newfound hope and gratitude.