Catherine, Princess of Wales announced that she was undergoing cancer treatment. File picture
Catherine, Princess of Wales, announced on Friday that she is being treated for cancer.
This comes after 41-year-old royal had an operation in January.
She made her announcement in a over two minutes long video statement where she mentioned that her diagnosis was a "huge shock"
"It has been an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family, but I've had a fantastic medical team who have taken great care of me, for which I am so grateful.
"In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was 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.
"This of course came as a huge shock, and William and I 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.
"As I have said to them, I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits.
"Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too. As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you.
"It means so much to us both. 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.
"At this time, I am also thinking of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer.
"For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone."
Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak wished Catherine, Princess of Wales, a "full and speedy recovery" after she announced Friday that she has cancer and is in the early stages of chemotherapy.
Sunak said the princess has "the love and support of the whole country" and added that she had shown "tremendous bravery" with her statement.
White House press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, wished Catherine a full recovery after the ‘terrible’ news of her cancer diagnosis.
"All of us just heard the terrible news. Our thoughts are with the Duchess of Cambridge and her family," she told reporters.
– AFP