Britain's Kate Middleton has said she is “cancer-free” after completing chemotherapy and plans to resume limited public engagements in the coming months.
In a video message released by Kensington Palace on Monday, Kate said she was delighted to have completed her course of preventative chemotherapy after an “incredibly tough” and “terrifying” nine months for her and her family.
“Now I'm focused on doing everything I can to avoid getting cancer,” she said.
The princess added that her “road to healing and full recovery is long and I must continue to take each day as it comes.” She mentioned “turbulent waters” and an unknown road ahead.
The palace said Kate had begun working from home on some projects and would return to a “lighter programme of external engagements for the rest of the year”.
The princess said in a statement: “As the summer draws to a close, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to finally complete my chemotherapy.
“The last nine months have been incredibly difficult for us as a family. Life, as you know, can change in an instant, and we have had to find a way to navigate rough waters and uncharted roads.
“The path of Cancer is difficult, scary and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you. With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerability in a way you never thought possible, and with it, a new perspective on everything.
“This time has, above all, reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple but important things in life that many of us often take for granted. That we simply love and are loved.
“Right now, I'm focused on doing everything I can to stay cancer-free. Although I've completed chemotherapy, my road to healing and full recovery is long, and I have to continue to take each day as it comes.
“However, I am looking forward to returning to work and taking part in some public events in the coming months when I can.
“Despite everything that has come before, I enter this new phase of recovery with a renewed sense of hope and appreciation for life. William and I are so grateful for the support we have received and have drawn tremendous strength from all those who are helping us during this time.
“The kindness, empathy and compassion from each of us was truly overwhelming.
“To all those who continue their journey of fighting cancer – I stand with you, side by side, hand in hand. Out of darkness can come light, so let that light shine brightly.”
Message from Catherine, Princess of Wales
As summer comes to an end, I can't tell you what a relief it is to finally finish my chemotherapy.
The last nine months have been incredibly difficult for us as a family. Life, as you know, can change in… pic.twitter.com/9S1W8sDHUL
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) September 9, 2024
The palace has released a three-minute video of Kate, her husband Prince William and the couple's three children walking and playing games. The video was filmed last month on a beach in Norfolk, a Kensington Palace spokesman said.
Kate revealed that she was diagnosed with cancer in MarchHer news came shortly after her father-in-law, Britain's King Charles III, revealed he was also being treated for cancer. The king has since resumed some public appearances.
On Monday, Kensington Palace declined to provide further information about the princess's illness and treatment, citing her right to medical confidentiality.
The palace will not provide advance information about Kate's public engagements, but she is expected to attend several as part of her gradual return to public duties.
One of her commitments is likely to be to stand by William at the Cenotaph on Remembrance Sunday in November. She is also working on the Christmas service, which will take place in December.
Decisions about the princess's public appearances next year are expected to be made in accordance with medical advice.
The princess's openness about her diagnosis and treatment, as well as her frankness about the emotional challenges she, her husband and three children faced, have been praised by cancer experts.