UK royals ‘extremely moved’ by support

LONDON: The prince and princess of Wales are said to be “enormously touched” and “extremely moved” by the public’s warmth and support following Kate’s cancer announcement.

Kate, 42, revealed she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy in an emotional video message on Friday.

There has been a global outpouring of support, including from King Charles III, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, political figures, and members of the public.

A Kensington Palace spokesperson said on Saturday: “The prince and princess are both enormously touched by the kind messages from people here in the UK, across the Commonwealth, and around the world in response to her message.

“They are extremely moved by the public’s warmth and support and are grateful for the understanding of their request for privacy at this time.”

Charles, who was diagnosed with cancer in February, is said to be proud of his daughterin-law for her courage in speaking about her treatment and has remained in close contact during the past few weeks.

Words of support also came from the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who said: “We wish health and healing for Kate and the family, and hope they can do so privately and in peace.”

The form of cancer has not been disclosed, but the future queen began a course of “preventative chemotherapy” late in February, and is said to have a positive mindset for her recovery and is in good spirits, describing herself as “well and getting stronger every day”.

William and Kate have focused on their children, taking the time to sensitively share the state of her health with George, Charlotte, and Louis.

Political leaders of all sides expressed sympathy and support for Kate and criticised what UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak described as the “intense scrutiny” she has faced from social media and sections of the media.

UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron said in a post on X, formerly Twitter: “The strength of the princess – speaking so frankly, with all the pressures of publicity and bringing up a young family – is remarkable and is rightly admired around the world.”

It is understood the video message, recorded on Wednesday in Windsor, was released on the day William and Kate’s three children began their Easter school holidays, to take advantage of the break to shield them from coverage of their mother’s health. –