Kate Middleton diagnosed with cancer, starting chemotherapy

Kate Middleton has finally given the world an update on her health.

In a new video released through the official royal social media pages, the Princess of Wales has revealed that her January abdominal surgery uncovered evidence of cancer and that she is in the early stages of chemotherapy.

The announcement came after weeks of speculation about Middleton’s whereabouts and well-being. Conspiracy theories spread in the wake of the Associated Press issuing a kill notice for a Mother’s Day photograph released by Kensington Palace that it determined had been digitally altered.

The video is the first time the princess has appeared on camera since Christmas.

“I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you personally for all the wonderful messages of support and for your understanding whilst I’ve been recovering from surgery,” she said. “It has been an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family, but I’ve had a fantastic medical team who have taken great care of me, for which I am so grateful.”

She continued, “In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London, and at the time it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. The surgery was successful. However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present. My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy, and I’m now in the early stages of that treatment.”

Middleton went on to explain that the family has been taking time to explain the circumstances to her and Prince William’s children.

“This, of course, came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family,” she said. “As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment, but, most importantly, it has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte, and Louis in a way that’s appropriate for them and to reassure them that I’m going to be okay.”

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The Princess of Wales ended her message by assuring viewers that she has a positive outlook and is improving daily.

“I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal in my mind, body, and spirit,” she said. “Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance, too — as is the love, support, and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both. We hope that you’ll understand that as a family we now need some time, space, and privacy while I complete my treatment. My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy, and I look forward to being back when I’m able. But for now I must focus on making a full recovery.”

Middleton also added a note of sympathy for any individuals who’ve dealt with the disease. “At this time I’m also thinking of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer,” she said. “For everyone facing this disease in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone.”

This diagnosis comes in the wake of King Charles’ cancer diagnosis. He is also seeking treatment.

Watch the video above for more.

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