Princess Catherine, the Princess of Wales, has announced she has completed her chemotherapy treatment and is “doing what I can to stay cancer free.” In a personal video message released Monday, she revealed she is entering a “new phase of recovery with a renewed sense of hope and appreciation of life,” CNN reports.
The Princess, known as Kate, was diagnosed with cancer in March, following major abdominal surgery shortly after Christmas. She has made only two public appearances since her diagnosis, a stark contrast to her usual busy schedule.
“As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment,” said Kate who is married to Prince William, the heir to the British throne.
She expressed her eagerness to return to her public duties while maintaining a lighter schedule to facilitate a full recovery. The Princess is expected to attend the annual Remembrance Day service at the Cenotaph in London in November.
Medical experts have stressed the importance of the first six to 24 months following chemotherapy, as this period is considered “the most critical” in determining whether the cancer has returned.
While initially stating Kate’s surgery had been for a non-cancerous condition, Kensington Palace confirmed her cancer diagnosis in March, following widespread speculation about her health. The news came as a shock to the nation, particularly as it followed King Charles III’s own cancer diagnosis in February. Neither royal has disclosed the specific type of cancer they are receiving treatment for.
In her initial announcement, Kate explained she had been advised to undergo “preventative” chemotherapy, which is often used after surgery to minimize the risk of cancer recurrence.
Since her diagnosis, Kate has shared updates on her progress, revealing in June that she was making “good progress” in her recovery and expecting her treatment to continue “for a few more months.”
In June, she joined King Charles III and family members on the balcony of Buckingham Palace for the Trooping the Colour ceremony, marking her first public appearance since Christmas Day.
She then made a surprise appearance at the Wimbledon men’s singles final in July, where she received a standing ovation from the Centre Court crowd.
