The Princess of Wales has said she is receiving chemotherapy treatment for cancer.
Princess Catherine revealed the news in an emotional video message which was shared on Friday evening (March 22).
She said: “I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you, personally, for all the wonderful messages of support and for your understanding whilst I have been recovering from surgery.
“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."
Read more: King 'so proud' of Princess for speaking out on diagnosis
Her Royal Highness, who is married to the heir to the throne Prince William, said she underwent abdominal surgery in London in January when it was thought the condition was non-cancerous.
She said: "The surgery was successful. However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present.
A message from Catherine, The Princess of Wales pic.twitter.com/5LQT1qGarK
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) March 22, 2024
“My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment.
“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.
“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 is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be OK.
“As I have said to them; I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits.
“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 will 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 am able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery.
“At this time, I am also thinking of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer.
“For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone.”
Read more: Hospital staff 'tried to view' Princess of Wales medical files
Responding to the news, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said his thoughts were with the Princess of Wales, Prince of Wales and their three children.
He said: “The Princess of Wales has the love and support of the whole country as she continues her recovery.
“She has shown tremendous bravery with her statement today. In recent weeks she has been subjected to intense scrutiny and has been unfairly treated by certain sections of the media around the world and on social media.
“When it comes to matters of health, like everyone else, she must be afforded the privacy to focus on her treatment and be with her loving family.
“I know I speak for the whole country in wishing her a full and speedy recovery and look forward to seeing her back in action when she’s ready.”
Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf said he was "deeply saddened" by the news.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) Mr Yousaf said: "I'm deeply saddened to hear the news about the Princess of Wales/Duchess of Rothesay. I am praying for her swift recovery.
"It must be an incredibly difficult time for the whole family. Royalty or otherwise, she has the right to privacy, which I hope will be respected."
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