The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton has been diagnosed with cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy.
The Princess, posted a video message, stating that she underwent "major" abdominal surgery, and that she started chemotherapy in February. Catherine is now the second memeber of the Royal Family to announce a cancer diagnosis, after her father-in-law, King Charles, also underwent cancer treatment.
"This of course came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family," Kate, said in the video. "As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment."
The cancer was discovered in post-operative tests after her abdominal surgery,
"The surgery was successful," Kate said. "However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present. 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. 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," Kate said. "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."
Kate will return to official duties when she's cleared by her medical team.
U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said in a statement,
"In recent weeks she has been subjected to intense scrutiny and has been unfairly treated by certain sections of the media around the world and on social media. When it comes to matters of health, like everyone else, she must be afforded the privacy to focus on her treatment and be with her loving family. "I know I speak for the whole country in wishing her a full and speedy recovery and look forward to seeing her back in action when she's ready."
The announcement follows reports that staffers at the London Clinic, where Kate was admitted, are under investigation for trying to access the Princess of Wales' medical records.