Catherine, Princess of Wales, announced on Monday that she has completed her chemotherapy treatment and is now focusing on staying “cancer-free” as she gradually returns to her royal duties this fall.
In a candid video message released by Kensington Palace, the 42-year-old royal reflected on the “incredibly tough” nine months she and her family have endured. “Doing what I can to stay cancer-free is now my focus,” Catherine said. Despite completing her preventative treatment, she acknowledged that her “path to healing and full recovery” would be a long one.
The palace confirmed that Catherine plans to take on a limited number of public engagements in the coming months, though she has already started working from home. Her first public appearance since her diagnosis was at the Trooping the Colour event in June, followed by her attendance at Wimbledon in July.
The video shared by the palace shows Catherine spending time in Norfolk with her husband, Prince William, and their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. Her parents, Michael and Carole Middleton, also appear in the footage, playing board games with their grandchildren.
“The cancer journey is complex, scary, and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you,” Catherine said. “With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerabilities and gives you a new perspective on everything.”
She expressed gratitude for the support she and her family have received from around the world, adding that the experience has reminded her and William to be grateful for “the simple yet important things in life.”
Roya Nikkhah, royal editor at The Sunday Times, noted the personal tone of the video, especially with the rare inclusion of Catherine’s parents. “She’s chosen to share very personal updates about how she’s feeling, showing the public she’s gotten through this with the support of her family,” Nikkhah said.
Catherine began treatment in February after major abdominal surgery revealed the presence of cancer. The palace has not disclosed the specifics of her diagnosis but confirmed that her chemotherapy was preventative.