Kate Middleton Shared Her First Health Update Since Announcing Her Cancer Diagnosis

    "I am learning how to be patient, especially with uncertainty."

    Joseph Longo
    by Joseph Longo

    BuzzFeed Staff

    Kate Middleton is providing the public with a rare health update amid her ongoing treatment for cancer.

    Kate Middleton wearing a stylish, tailored coat and a matching fascinator at a public event, smiling and holding hands with a child
    Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Images

    In March, the Princess of Wales issued a video statement, saying she had been diagnosed with cancer following a "major abdominal surgery." Kate also noted at the time that she had begun "preventative chemotherapy" treatments.

    A message from Catherine, The Princess of Wales pic.twitter.com/5LQT1qGarK

    — The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) March 22, 2024
    @KensingtonRoyal/Twitter / Via Twitter: @KensingtonRoyal

    On Friday, Kate issued her first public health update in a post on social media.

    Kate Middleton smiles while wearing a blazer and earrings at an outdoor evening event with string lights in the background
    Chris Jackson / Getty Images

    She began her statement by expressing gratitude for the "support and encouragement" she's received in recent months.

    Kate Middleton smiles while attending a public event, wearing a blazer and matching top, with her hair styled down and simple earrings
    Chris Jackson / Chris Jackson / Getty Images

    "I have been blown away by all the kind messages of support and encouragement over the last couple of months," Kate said. "It really has made the world of difference to [Prince] William and me and has helped us both through some of the harder times."

    Kate then provided an update on her cancer treatment, noting she's "making good progress" but is experiencing "good days and bad days."

    Kate Middleton smiles while wearing an elegant dress with shoulder cutouts and a jeweled neckline
    Max Mumby / Getty Images

    "I am making good progress, but as anyone going through chemotherapy will know, there are good days and bad days," she said. "On those bad days you feel weak, tired and you have to give in to your body resting. But on the good days, when you feel stronger, you want to make the most of feeling well."

    Kate also noted her treatment will continue for months, and her good days include focusing on "things that give [her] energy and positivity."

    Prince William and Kate Middleton pose together; Kate wears a stylish hat and an elegant outfit with a large bow
    Samir Hussein / Samir Hussein / WireImage / Getty Images

    "My treatment is ongoing and will be for a few more months," she said. "On the days I feel well enough, it is a joy to engage with school life, spend personal time on the things that give me energy and positivity, as well as starting to do a little work from home."

    Kate announced she'll attend King Charles's Birthday Parade, also known as Trooping the Colour, this weekend. While expressing her hope to additionally participate in the summer public engagements, she added, "I am not out of the woods yet."

    Kate Middleton smiles in an outdoor setting, wearing a tailored blazer with gold buttons over a white top
    Samir Hussein / WireImage / Getty Images

    Finally, Kate noted she's learning patience and "allowing" herself time to heal.

    Kate Middleton, smiling, wearing a beige sweater with pearl earrings, walking outdoors
    Chris Jackson / Getty Images

    "I am learning how to be patient, especially with uncertainty. Taking each day as it comes, listening to my body, and allowing myself to take this much needed time to heal," she concluded. "Thank you so much for your continued understanding, and to all of you who have so bravely shared your stories with me."

    You can read her full statement here.