The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, underwent abdominal surgery that will force her to stay away from royal duties for several months.
This was reported by Kensington Palace in a statement, which indicated that the wife of Prince William will remain hospitalized at the London Clinic for a few days and then continue her recovery at home.
The statement also said that Kate will not resume her official activities until after Easter, which implies a period of about three months of rest.
This prolonged convalescence will prevent the Princess of Wales from attending major royal events scheduled for the coming weeks.
Royal events Kate Middleton will miss
Among the engagements Kate will have to miss are some that have already been confirmed and others that have not yet been officially announced.
For example, Kate and William were expected to take their first trip to Italy this spring, the Daily Mail revealed last month.
However, that trip will have to be postponed or cancelled due to the princess’s health.
Another event that Kate will not be able to attend is the tribute to King Constantine of Greece, which will be held at Westminster Abbey on January 27.
The service was to be attended by Prince Charles, Prince William and Kate Middleton. However, following the Princess’s operation, it is unlikely that any of them will be able to attend.
The Six Nations Rugby Championship kicks off on February 2 with a match between France and Ireland at the Orange Velodrome in Marseille.
The Princess of Wales will not be able to attend this sporting event, nor will she be present at other major events in the British calendar.
These include the Bafta Awards, which will be held in London on February 18.
The princess is also not expected to attend a St. David’s Day celebration in March or the traditional St. Patrick’s Day parade.
Another ceremony the royal is likely to miss is the annual Commonwealth Day service, which is held on the second Monday in March each year.