Kate Middleton Reveals She Has Cancer and Is In 'Early Stages' of Treatment

Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, revealed on Friday that she has been diagnosed with cancer and is in the early stages of getting treatment for it.

In a video published by Kensington Palace, Catherine said that she underwent surgery in January and that, back then, her condition seemed to be "non-cancerous."

"The surgery was successful. 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," she added.

Kate described the diagnosis as a "huge shock" and said that she and Prince William, heir to the British throne, "have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family."

"As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment. But, most importantly, 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."

In another passage of the video, she praised her husband for being by her side as a "great source of comfort and reassurance." She added that she is "well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits."

"We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment. My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to being back when I am able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery," the princess said, a veiled reference to the public questioning about her absence from the public eye. The issue has sporadically been at the center of the conversation as more fringe sectors of the internet have formulated conspiracy theories regarding her whereabouts.

"For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone," Kate concluded.

The announcement comes just weeks after King Charles III announced he is undergoing treatment for an unspecified cancer. The 75-year-old confirmed the diagnosis following a procedure for a benign prostate condition.

"His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties," Buckingham Palace said in early February.