Kensington Palace has shared a fresh update on Kate Middleton after what she described as a “really difficult” year.
The Princess of Wales was diagnosed with cancer in March 2024.
Since then, she has been in remission, while gradually returning to public life.
Now, she has opened up about the challenges of life after treatment.
Kate Opens Up On ‘Difficult’ Recovery
Kate recently visited a hospital garden in Essex, UK.
During the visit, she spoke honestly about finding her “new normal.”
Middleton said: “You put on a sort of brave face, stoicism through treatment.
“Treatment’s done, then it’s like, ‘I can crack on, get back to normal,’ but actually, the phase afterwards is really, really difficult.”
The 43-year-old explained how recovery is not always straightforward.
“You’re not necessarily under the clinical team any longer, but you’re not able to function normally at home as you perhaps once used to.
“And actually, someone to help talk you through that, show you and guide you through that sort of phase that comes after treatment, I think is really valuable.”
Kate first revealed her diagnosis after weeks of public speculation about her absence.
Following abdominal surgery, doctors discovered cancer “had been present.”
Balancing Health And Royal Duties
In her statement last year, Kate shared: “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.”
Since then, she has made a careful return to public duties.
Her main focus has been on early years education and supporting charities close to her heart.
The mother-of-three is also prioritizing time with her family.
She is now being selective with the engagements she attends.
Her approach shows a balance between recovery and responsibilities as a senior royal.
Surprise Trip To Northern Ireland
Today, Kensington Palace confirmed that Kate and Prince William will make a surprise visit to Northern Ireland.
The announcement revealed the couple will spend the day meeting organizations promoting rural growth and opportunities for young people.
The palace said the trip would highlight entrepreneurship and creativity in the region.
It follows their most recent joint engagement in Southport, UK.
That visit came after a tragic knife attack in July 2024, when three young girls were killed at a Taylor Swift dance party.
William and Kate paid tribute to the victims, describing the girls’ lives as leaving “remarkable legacies.”
Their appearance in Northern Ireland is the latest sign that Kate is slowly resuming her public role, while continuing to prioritize her health.
