How Kate Middleton Is Talking to Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis About Cancer Treatment

The Princess of Wales cited her children as a key reason why she took time to share the news

Kate Middleton is focused on her family as she navigates her cancer treatment.

On Friday, the Princess of Wales, 42, announced that she is undergoing treatment for cancer in a personal video message and outlined how she waited to publicly disclose the diagnosis in order to take time to explain the situation to her three children, Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 8, and Prince Louis, 5, whom she shares with Prince William.

Princess Kate shared the health news after Kensington Palace revealed on Jan. 17 that the royal had had "planned abdominal surgery" the day prior and post-operative tests "found cancer had been present." The Princess of Wales said she is in the "early stages" of a course of preventative chemotherapy.

"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," Princess Kate said.

Related: Kate Middleton's Surgery Recovery and Photo Controversy: Everything to Know

"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," she explained, shouting out how Prince William, 41, has supported her.

"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," the Princess of Wales continued.

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Princess Kate also had her children top of mind after her abdominal surgery news was announced in January.

Kensington Palace said in the statement revealing her procedure, "The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate. She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible; and her wish that her personal medical information remains private."

Prince William also took several weeks off from royal duty as he helped his wife and kept things as normal as possible in Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis' routines.

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