The Princess of Wales said she is focusing on “staying cancer free” now that she has completed her chemotherapy treatment and will be gradually returning to public life over the coming months.
In a video message from Kensington Palace on Monday, Catherine spoke with obvious relief as she announced that nine months of prophylactic chemotherapy-what she called “scary” and “incredibly tough” on her and her family-had finally concluded.
“Doing what I can to stay cancer free is now my focus,” she said.
She said the “path to healing and full recovery is long” and underscored that she has to take it “one day at a time.” Catherine described facing “stormy waters” and an uncertain journey ahead.
Altogether, Kensington Palace also made clear that, although the princess had been already working on specific projects from home, she would undertake a “light schedule of external commitments for the rest of the year.”
“We are all overwhelmed with emotion at the thought of finally completing treatment that has taken such a toll on our bodies and particularly frustrated that we did not act sooner,” Catherine said in the release. “As summer draws to a close, I just can’t tell you what a boost it is to know that I have finally finished my chemotherapy treatment.
She looked back at the last couple of months and said, “The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant, and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown.
She spoke to the emotional toll of cancer, adding, “The cancer journey is complex, scary and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you. With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerabilities in a way you have never considered before, and with that, a new perspective on everything.”
It has taught her and Prince William to appreciate the little joys of life: “This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted. Of simply loving and being loved.”
Looking ahead, she said, “Although I have finished chemotherapy, my path to healing and full recovery is long, and I must continue to take each day as it comes. I am, however, looking forward to being back at work and undertaking a few more public engagements in the coming months when I can.”
She concluded: “Despite all that has gone before, I enter this new phase of recovery with a renewed sense of hope and appreciation of life. William and I are so grateful for the support we have received and have drawn great strength from all those who are helping us at this time.”
She concluded on a note of companionship: “To all those who are continuing their own cancer journey – I remain with you, side by side, hand in hand. Out of darkness, can come light, so let that light shine bright.”
Along with her message, Kensington Palace released a three-minute video featuring Catherine, William, and their three children enjoying time together at a Norfolk beach in August.
The Princess revealed her cancer condition in a video message in March. The announcement of the Princess came weeks after King Charles also declared that he too was getting treated for cancer. The King has since resumed public duties.
On Monday, the palace would not go into details about Catherine’s condition, citing her medical privacy, and will not provide advance details on when she does engagements. However, it is expected she will join the Prince of Wales at the Cenotaph for Remembrance Sunday in November and is arranging a carol service for December.
Decisions on her engagements for next year are to be made based on medical advice.
On the other hand, cancer experts have also praised Catherine for having shared with them her diagnosis, treatment process, and even her emotional ordeals and those of her family.