Kate Middleton has been diagnosed with cancer

After a period of much speculation concerning her condition, it has been revealed that Kate Middleton has been diagnosed with cancer. The Princess of Wales officially released a statement on Friday.

A video of the 52-year-old, who has been missing from the spotlight since January after initially undergoing abdominal surgery, was uploaded to her official Instagram account earlier on Friday. In the 2-minute and 16-second video, she describes the diagnosis as a ‘huge shock’ to her family.

Catherine, Princess of Wales, diagnosed with cancer

While making a point to reassure the public that she is on the road to recovery, Her Royal Highness noted that her condition was initially believed to have been non-cancerous when it was discovered during her operation. Despite the surgery’s success, later tests confirmed that cancer was indeed present and that she would be required to undergo chemotherapy sessions as a preventative measure.

Her Royal Highness adds that she and her husband, Prince William needed both the time and privacy away from the public eye to explain her condition to their children, George, 10, Charlotte, eight, and Louis, five.

“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.” she said.

However, she has reassured the public that she continues to be on the road to recovery and is “getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits.” Additionally, she credits William for being a source of much comfort for her during this period.

“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,” she concludes, ending her message by telling those who are similarly battling cancer to “not lose faith or hope.”

Her Royal Highness was last photographed at a farm shop with Prince William just a little over three days ago, amid intense speculation on her whereabouts and well-being. According to the Palace, the princess’ chemotherapy treatment had begun in early February.

This adds yet another blow to the Royal Family after His Majesty, King Charles III, released a statement of his own concerning the treatment of an unspecified cancer diagnosis on February 5th.

Feature and hero image credit: Prince and Princess of Wales/Instagram