Kate Middleton made her cancer diagnosis public in a video message on 22 March 2024, shortly after King Charles’ cancer diagnosis. While the specific type of cancer had not been publicly confirmed, her treatment included several rounds of chemotherapy.
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The Princess retreated from royal duties for a while and made a long-awaited return to public life in a very special Trooping the Colour outfit. Her other notable appearance was at Wimbledon in July 2024, where she received a standing ovation. After months of prioritising her mental health and her family, the Princess of Wales has now revealed she’s ‘cancer-free’ in a new update.
Kate Middleton gives a major update on her cancer journey
On Monday, 9 September 2024, Kate Middleton delighted royal fans and watchers with a significant update about her health following a months-long battle with cancer. She revealed that she has successfully completed her chemotherapy. In an Instagram video update, she said:
As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment.
The cancer journey is complex, scary and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you.
The video was posted in the typical ‘The Wales Daily’ series format. Kate described the past nine months as incredibly ‘tough’ for her and her family. She noted that ‘life as you know it can change in an instant,’ emphasising how cancer had profoundly affected their daily lives, reports The Telegraph. She explained:
This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted.
The Princess expressed her relief at completing chemotherapy but acknowledged that there is still a long road to recovery. She said:
Doing what I can to stay cancer-free is now my focus. Although I have finished chemotherapy, my path to healing and full recovery is long and I must continue to take each day as it comes.
She confirmed that she’s ‘looking forward to being back at work’ and undertaking more public engagements.
Symbolic details in Kate’s cancer update video
In the video accompanying the announcement, Kate was seen spending time with her family outdoors, underscoring the importance of loved ones in her healing process. Her video marking the end of her chemotherapy treatment is filled with symbolic details that reflect her cancer journey, reports Town & Country Magazine. For instance, standing at the base of a tree symbolises life and growth, while Kate seated in the driver’s seat represents her reclaiming control over her life.
She wears a new eternity ring, potentially symbolising a new chapter, and a pendant featuring her children’s initials, highlighting the importance of family. The video also shows Kate releasing a butterfly, a metaphor for transformation and hope, symbolising her victory over cancer. The use of ferns and the colour blue throughout the video signifies endurance and stability, with her family dressed in unison. Kate’s parents also make a brief appearance, symbolising the support of her Middleton family alongside the Windsors. The music, ‘Ireland’ by Ben Winwood, further ties into her role as the Princess of Wales.
Princess Kate’s plans for the future
As Kate announced she’s planning to undertake more public engagements in future, speculations have become rife that she could ‘potentially’ join the Royal Family for Remembrance Sunday on 10 November. According to People Magazine, the ceremony, held at the Cenotaph in Whitehall, is one of the most solemn occasions on the royal calendar, paying tribute to fallen soldiers.
In another report by the Mirror, it has been suggested that Kate has already started planning her annual Christmas carol concert at Westminster Abbey. Kate is said to be looking forward to hosting her televised ‘Together at Christmas’ service, a tradition she started in 2021.
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Sources used
The Telegraph: Princess of Wales: My chemotherapy is over, now I’m focused on staying cancer-free
Town & Country Magazine: All the Symbolism in Kate Middleton's Video About Her Cancer Journey
People Magazine: Kate Middleton Is ‘Potentially’ Going to Attend Remembrance Day Event in November: Report
Mirror: Kate Middleton 'planning royal return' but candid health warning 'still rings true'
