Kate Middleton has seen her fair share of bad press, especially given that she is endlessly compared to Meghan Markle. But now, a statement from Kensington Palace has revealed that the Princess of Wales has undergone abdominal surgery and is unlikely to resume her royal duties for some time.
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There is little known about the details of her surgery, but the last time she was seen in public was at Christmas when she joined the rest of the family for their annual walk to church. Here’s what the palace has revealed about her hospitalisation, and how her absence could impact the Royal Ramily as a whole.
Princess of Wales to be out of action for months
Kensington Palace announced on Wednesday 17 January that the Princess, who turned 42 earlier this month, is in hospital. She underwent a ‘planned abdominal surgery’ at The London Clinic and ‘it is expected that she will remain in hospital for ten to fourteen days, before returning home to continue her recovery’.
The notice went on, pointing out that, ‘based on the current medical advice, she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter’. The Princess has asked for privacy at this time as she trusts the public to ‘understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible’.
How the Princess’ absence could affect the royal family
The Royal Family’s popularity is a fluctuating thing, and with the recent reporting about Prince Andrew’s involvement in the Epstein affair and the ongoing drama surrounding Prince Harry and Meghan’s choice of name for their daughter, this is the latest blow for the monarchy.
Of course, the Princess of Wales is not in the wrong here. She has apologised for cancelling her engagements, and ‘looks forward to reinstating as many as possible, as soon as possible’. Yet, her absence will undoubtedly lead to yet more criticism of the institution and a possible dip in its popularity.
On top of Princess Kate’s absence, it is understood that Prince William will likely be carrying out fewer royal duties as he supports his wife and three children during this tough time. Given that the Prince and Princess of Wales are the youngest working royals, this could mean a difficult time lies ahead for the British monarchy.
After being discharged from hospital, the Princess of Wales is expected to spend her recovery at home in Windsor.
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Sources used:
People: Kate Middleton Hospitalized After Abdominal Surgery, Cancels All Engagements Until Easter
The Mirror: Kate Middleton admitted to hospital for surgery as appointments cancelled for months
