Kate Middleton Reveals Cancer Diagnosis: Full Recap

The Princess of Wales, 42, opened about her health following her January planned abdominal surgery

By 

Lindsay Kimble

 

and 

Maria Mercedes Lara

 

 

Updated on March 22, 2024 05:47PM EDT

Kate Middleton. PHOTO: 

KARWAI TANG/WIREIMAGE

Kate Middleton has cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy — a revelation the Princess of Wales shared on Friday in a personal video message released by Kensington Palace.

The news comes just months after Princess Kate had undergone a "planned abdominal surgery"on Jan. 17. In her new message, she said that at the time of her surgery, it was understood that the issue was non-cancerous. Ultimately, post-operative tests "found cancer had been present."

The type of cancer was not revealed in Princess Kate's message, and a Kensington Palace spokesperson says, "We will not be sharing any further private medical information. The Princess has a right to medical privacy, as we all do."

Princess Kate assured viewers "I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits."

Keep reading for a recap of the Princess of Wales' cancer revelation — including how her family has been supporting her during this challenging time.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

• On Friday, March 22, Kate Middleton revealed that she had been diagnosed with cancer and undergoing "preventive chemotherapy."
• The Princess of Wales said that the cancer was discovered after her abdominal surgery in January.
• Kate explained that she and Prince William had been taking time to explain her health issues to their three children and she was taking a step back from work to focus on her health and recovery.
• Many rushed to send words of support to Kate, including her brother-in-law Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle, who wished her "health and healing."
• Kate's news makes her the third member of the royal family to publicly reveal that they have been recently diagnosed with cancer. King Charles and Sarah, Duchess of York, had both previously revealed that they had been diagnosed with cancer