King Charles III stated on Friday that he is “so proud” of Catherine, Princess of Wales, for “her courage in speaking as she did” after she revealed her cancer diagnosis in a video statement.
Charles, who is now receiving cancer treatment, has maintained “closest contact with his beloved daughter-in-law,” according to a Buckingham Palace official.
“His Majesty is quite proud of Catherine for her bravery in speaking as she did. Following their time in the hospital together, His Majesty has maintained constant contact with his beloved daughter-in-law for several weeks,” Charles stated in a statement, according to ABC News. “Both their Majesties will continue to offer their love and support to the whole family throughout this difficult time.”
The king’s comments come after Kate, 42, revealed that she has been fighting cancer privately for months.
On Friday, March 22, a source reported that Kate underwent stomach surgery and was later diagnosed with cancer. The family learnt of Kate’s diagnosis on the same day that Prince William canceled his participation at the memorial service for his godfather, King Constantine of Greece.
The insider stated that the royals “have been processing the information.”
Kate revealed her cancer diagnosis in a video statement on Friday, indicating she is in the “early stages” of treatment. “This of course came as a huge shock,” she told me. “I am well and getting stronger every day.”
A message from Catherine, The Princess of Wales pic.twitter.com/5LQT1qGarK
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) March 22, 2024
In January, Kensington Palace stated that Kate would be unavailable for public responsibilities until Easter due to an abdominal operation. However, the princess’s lack of candor led some followers to believe there was more going on.
Kate and William, 41, posted a photoshopped photograph on U.K. Mother’s Day in March to soothe public fears, but it backfired. Despite the outrage from the incident, Kate originally kept her health difficulties private.
“They wanted to wait to tell the world the news until their children were off school for the Easter break so they could have time to process the news before the whole world was talking about,” a source told Us on Friday. The source added that the family “aren’t revealing what type of cancer it is.”
Kate’s cancer diagnosis coincides with Charles’ battle with the illness. Buckingham Palace disclosed in January that while undergoing prostate surgery, physicians discovered cancer, and he began seeking treatment the next month.
In February, royal reporter Omid Scobie stated that the king’s illness was “not prostate cancer,” but the palace has not provided any other information.
“I would like to express my most heartfelt thanks for the many messages of support and good wishes I have received in recent days,” Charles said in a personal statement released by Buckingham Palace on February 10. “As all those who have been affected by cancer will know, such kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement.”