Kate's statement in full as she tells world she is undergoing treatment for cancer
The Princess of Wales confirmed on Friday evening that she is undergoing treatment for cancer.
The mum of three’s health has been the subject of intense public speculation since she underwent surgery in January.
At the time it was said Kate would be out of the public eye until Easter in order to recover from major surgery, which was undertaken at the London Clinic.
Her continued absence has provoked conspiracy theories as to the nature of her illness. Three members of staff at the London Clinic are under investigation over claims they tried to access the Princess’s medical records without proper cause.
On Friday evening Kate told the world that tests performed after the January operation have found cancer and that the 42-year-old is now undergoing treatment.
Her father-in-law, the King, is also undergoing cancer treatment.
Here is the Princess of Wales’ statement in full:
“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.
“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.
“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.”