Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, revealed on Friday that she has been diagnosed with cancer and that her treatment is in its "early stages."
Describing the diagnosis as a "huge shock," the announcement came through a video message reported by CNN.
The news arrives just two months after
Prince William temporarily withdrew from public duties following a non-cancerous abdominal ailment, for which he undergone surgery, according to a statement from Kensington Palace at the time.
"In January, I went through a major abdominal surgery in London, and at that time, the lesion was thought not to be cancerous," said the 42-year-old Duchess.
"The surgery was successful. However, subsequent examinations revealed cancer. As a result, my medical team advised me to undergo preventative chemotherapy, and I am currently in the early stages of this treatment," she explained.
The Duchess expressed that the diagnosis was a "huge shock" and added that she and
Prince William did everything possible to handle the matter privately for the sake of their family.
Catherine went on to discuss the time it took to recover from the surgery and how to explain the situation to their children George, Charlotte, and Louis and to reassure them that everything would be alright with their mother.
The Duchess stated that she is doing well and "becoming stronger day by day," focusing on the things that help her recovery.
She praised her husband,
Prince William, for providing support and comfort during this time, and she expressed gratitude for the public's support.
"We hope you understand that our family now needs some time, space, and privacy until my treatment is complete. My work has always brought me great joy, and I am looking forward to returning as soon as I am able, but for now, my full focus is on my recovery," the Duchess articulated.
In her heartfelt message, she concluded by thinking of those whose lives are affected by cancer.
"To everyone facing this illness in any way, please do not lose your faith and hope. You are not alone," the Duchess concluded her speech.
The announcement represents another significant blow to the British royal family, as King Charles III is currently undergoing treatment for an unspecified cancerous condition, as communicated by Buckingham Palace in early February.