‘THINKING SO MUCH ABOUT OUR PRINCESS. CANCER DOESN’T DISCRIMINATE’ PRINCESS KATE’S CANCER SHOCK: WHEN WAS SHE DIAGNOSED, WHAT TREATMENT IS SHE
Strictly star Amy Dowden shares emotional message of support for Princess Kate following her own high-profile cancer diagnosis
THE Princess of Wales’ revelation she is undergoing treatment for cancer has sparked an outpouring of well wishes from around the world – including an emotional message of support from Strictly star and fellow cancer patient Amy Dowden.
In a video message released on Friday evening, Kate spoke about the “huge shock” after tests identified cancer following her abdominal surgery and the “incredibly tough couple of months” her family have experienced, with her voice cracking with emotion at times during the footage.
The form of cancer has not been disclosed but the future Queen began a course of “preventative chemotherapy” late in February.
Following the release of the video, Strictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden said the news from Kate had “personally hit me hard”, coming less than a year after the professional dancer was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer and received chemotherapy treatment.
“Thinking so much about our Princess, Cancer doesn’t discriminate,” she said.
“There’s no textbook, right or wrong way to deal with a diagnosis and treatment. It’s personal and I really hope all can be kind and support our Princess.”
The 33-year-old from Caerphilly was diagnosed with cancer last May.
Since her initial diagnosis, Dowden has had numerous health setbacks.
She revealed that “no evidence of disease” was found during a health check last month, but she will not receive the “all clear” for five years due to her type of cancer.
Dowden, posting on Instagram, added: “I was lucky enough to meet The Princess of Wales during my treatment who was so kind, supportive and generous of time.
“Sending all my well wishes with treatment ahead and as always to all those affected by cancer.”
Mental health campaigner Dr Alex George was also among the celebrities who have previously met the Princess to reflect on her warmth and to wish her a speedy recovery.
Dr Alex, who rose to fame on Love Island and is now a TV doctor campaigning on mental health issues, hosted a panel discussion with Wil
THE Princess of Wales is undergoing preventative chemotherapy for cancer, she has told the nation in a video message released two days ago.
Kate, speaking from Windsor, described the development as a “huge shock”, but vowed “I am going to be OK”.
What has the princess announced? Kate has revealed she is in the early stages of a course of preventative chemotherapy.
Tests at the time of her abdominal surgery on January 16 showed her condition was non-cancerous, but post-operative tests found cancer had been present.
liam and Kate last year.
The Carmarthen-raised physician said: “The Princess of Wales left a real impression on me when we met for World Mental Health Day.
“I have met so many people who talk about mental health over the years, I have come to learn who talks the talk, and who walks the walk. The Princess is a stomper. A real good egg.
“It’s been pretty shocking to see the level of intrusion over the last few weeks and months, you can only imagine the effect on this person’s mental health. I hope [this] announcement
She said the surgery was successful and she took time to recover from the major operation in order to start the treatment.
What type of cancer was found?
It has not been disclosed. Kensington Palace said no further medical information will be shared, and that Kate has a right to medical privacy just like everyone else.
When did the princess find out about the cancer?
Once post-operative tests had been completed and results reviewed, but an exact date has not be released.
What treatment is Kate having? and brave message from HRH is a lesson that’s learnt from. We have to learn and grow as a society.
“As I am sure you all do, I wish the Princess a good and full recovery from her cancer and I hope when ready, HRH will be with us on the front line, fighting for mental health and our young people once again.
“Just remember, be kind. You never know what challenges someone is facing, or the battles they are trying to overcome. You got this, Your Royal Highness.”
The panel was part of a day of workshops and discussions to mark World Mental Health Day, as the royal couple launched the next phase of their campaign to support the nation’s mental health.
Former reality TV contestant Dr Alex has been an advocate for mental health following the death of his 19-year-old brother Llyr in July 2020.
The princess is now on a recovery pathway having commenced a course of preventative chemotherapy.
What is the princess’ prognosis? Kensington Palace are not commenting on this.
But Kate said in her message:
“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.”
Elsewhere, Swansea-born Oscarwinning actress Catherine Zeta-Jones shared a picture of Kate on Instagram, writing: “Wales and the World is with you. HRH Princess of Wales. Love to you always.”
There was also an apology from Hollywood actress Blake Lively, who had seemingly mocked Kate after she issued a personal apology for manipulating a family photograph, sparking conspiracy theories about her whereabouts.
Referencing a now-deleted Instagram post, Lively said: “I’m sure no one cares today but I feel like I have to acknowledge this.
“I made a silly post around the ‘photoshop fails’ frenzy, and oh man, that post has me mortified today. I’m sorry. Sending love and well wishes to all, always.”
Political leaders of all sides have expressed sympathy and support for
When did she start treatment?
Kate began a course of preventative chemotherapy in late February.
How long will the chemotherapy last?
This is understood to be subject to medical advice.
Kensington Palace is not commenting on the length of the course, or how often she is having treatment or where.
Was news of the cancer the reason the Prince of Wales pulled out of the memorial service for King Constantine of Greece on February 27?
Yes. At the time, Kensington Palace
Kate and criticised what Prime Minister Rishi Sunak described as the “intense scrutiny” she has faced from social media and sections of the media around the world.
First Minister Vaughan Gething wrote: “Deeply saddened to hear the news about HRH The Princess of Wales.
“On behalf of people across Wales, I would like to send our love and support to the Princess and her family at this very difficult time.
“All of our thoughts are with you as you continue your treatment.”
On Friday evening, hashtags including “#GetWellSoonCatherine” were trending on X, the same website which played host to much of the fevered speculation earlier in the week, while celebrities, cancer survivors and medics all sent messages of support to the princess.
King Charles has himself been said it was due to a “personal matter” but gave no further details.
It is understood this was the reason William missed his late godfather’s service at short notice.
Why is Kensington Palace only sharing the news now?
The Palace said: “The princess wanted to share this information when she and the prince felt it was right for them as a family.”
It is understood Kate wanted time and space to come to terms with diagnosis, recover from surgery and then begin her pathway to recovery.
William and Kate also wanted to be able to tell their children at the right time and allow them to