In a gesture of gratitude, Princess Kate visited the Royal Marsden Hospital, where she had received cancer treatment last year.
The Princess of Wales attended alone to personally thank the medical staff for their exceptional care and compassion, and took the opportunity to spend time with the patients.
As we posted on RoyalFamily.news, this is her most important royal engagement since she completed her treatment in September.
Princess Kate cancer statement
Speaking with a woman receiving chemotherapy, the Princess of Wales offered empathy drawn from her own experiences.
“It’s really tough… It’s such a shock… Everyone said to me, ‘please keep a positive mindset, it makes such a difference,’” she said, her words resonating with those facing similar struggles.
Kate later added that while many might assume life immediately returns to normal after treatment, the reality is more complex.
“You think the treatment has finished, and you can crack on and get back to normal, but that’s still a real challenge.”
During her interactions with patients, Kate reflected on the lingering effects of her illness.
Princess spoke candidly about how the body continues to feel the impact of the disease long after the medical procedures are over.
She explained that it’s not just the immediate side effects but also the longer-term ones that make recovery a slow and ongoing process.
In a poignant moment, she hugged a woman who appeared to be visiting a loved one. “I’m sorry. I wish there was more I could do to help,” Kate told her, offering comfort.
Before leaving, she encouraged those in the hospital, saying there is always hope. “There is light at the end of that tunnel… You are in the best of hands.”
A spokesperson for Kensington Palace highlighted the personal significance of this visit, noting how important it was for Kate to return, not only to show her gratitude to the hospital team but also to shine a light on the world-class care provided by the Royal Marsden.
Almost a year has passed since news of Kate’s health issues first became public, following an announcement in January that she had undergone abdominal surgery.
In March, she revealed she was in the early stages of cancer treatment, and by September, she shared the positive news that her chemotherapy had ended.
Since then, the princess has gradually resumed public engagements, including high-profile events like Remembrance Sunday and her annual Christmas carol concert at Westminster Abbey.
This visit also marked a new role for Kate as a joint royal patron of the Royal Marsden, alongside her husband, Prince William.