Amidst the hustle and bustle of the Trooping the Colour on June 14th, an image spoke louder than a thousand words. Sitting very smiling, the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, reappeared in public life. It was her first extended appearance after more than a year of battling cancer, a disease she faced alone while the world speculated endlessly.
During the same ceremony in 2024, Kate participated while receiving chemotherapy. This time, however, she looked very different, fulfilling her role as honorary colonel of the Irish Guards alongside King Charles III and Queen Camilla. Her presence conveyed a message: she is back, stronger than ever.
Kate Middleton
At 43 years old, the princess has gone through one of the most difficult chapters of her life. Her diagnosis came when she had not even been able to share the news with her children —George, Charlotte and Louis— and yet she had to face the media pressure. Her inner circle emphasizes that she could not have the privacy that is normally expected for someone with such a serious illness.
Kate returns to public life
With chemotherapy completed in September and the announcement of cancer remission in January, Kate has begun a new chapter in her life. Nature has been fundamental in her recovery. “During my recovery, I spent a lot of time outdoors, because that’s where I felt at peace,” she recently told Chief Scout Dwayne Fields. Specifically, in their homes in Norfolk and Windsor.
Kate, in her return, has wanted to listen to her body and prioritize her family. According to biographer Catherine Mayer, her limited presence has increased the impact: “She is the one who generates enthusiasm. For her, less is more.”
Her fight against cancer has also created a stronger bond with those who suffer from this disease. One of the most moving gestures was her support for the family of Liz Hatton, a young photographer with terminal cancer, whom she allowed to fulfill her dream before she died. Liz’s mother described Kate as “an extension of our family.”
Amid the future transitions of the crown, Kate and William are preparing to assume greater responsibilities. They are forming a solid team of advisors and reorganizing priorities. As a source close to them put it: “They have reassessed everything.”
Before the well-deserved summer break in Norfolk or perhaps in Scotland, Kate will attend Wimbledon and possibly a state dinner with President Macron.