Kate Middleton has announced she is undergoing cancer treatment.
The Princess of Wales confirmed the news in a statement on Friday (22 March), breaking her weeks-long silence.
"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," Kate said.
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"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.
"In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. The surgery was successful.
"However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present. 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.
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"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."
Kate continued: "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.
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"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 jov and I look forward to being back when I am able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery."
Over the last few weeks, rumours over Kate's wellbeing have been circulating, following the news the princess was undergoing planned abdominal surgery and would be temporarily withdrawing from public engagements.
Last weekend, Kate, alongside her husband and future king Prince William, were spotted at a farm shop in Windsor.
Topics: Kate Middleton, Royal Family
Lucy Devine