Catherine, Princess of Wales, Turns 43: Prince William Praises Her Strength Fighting Cancer
A Year of Challenges
Catherine, Princess of Wales, celebrated her 43rd birthday today, with her husband Prince William acknowledging her remarkable strength in fighting cancer over the past year. Kate, as she is widely known, revealed last March that she had been diagnosed with an unspecified cancer and was undergoing chemotherapy.
A Family Affair
The announcement came weeks after her father-in-law, King Charles III, disclosed that he too was receiving treatment for cancer. Both the princess and the king withdrew from public life for months in 2024 but have since returned to royal duties, albeit on a more limited scale for Kate.
A Long Path to Recovery
Charles, 76, is reportedly continuing his treatment, while Kate said in September that she had finished a course of chemotherapy but that her “path to healing and full recovery is long.” Kensington Palace has not revealed where the princess would mark the start of her 44th year.
Family Traditions
She usually spends her birthday in Norfolk, eastern England, with her children – Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 9, and six-year-old Prince Louis – and her husband, who is heir to the throne.
A Heartfelt Birthday Message
Posting a photo of a smiling Kate on social media today, William addressed his birthday message “to the most incredible wife and mother.” “The strength you’ve shown over the last year has been remarkable. George, Charlotte, Louis, and I are so proud of you. Happy Birthday, Catherine. We love you,” he wrote.
More Appearances Ahead
She and William are set to make more appearances together in 2025 as they eye a return to normality, with William suggesting that an overseas trip may even be on the cards. The princess has not taken part in an official foreign visit since she attended the Rugby World Cup in France in October 2023.
A Return to Royal Duties
She first resumed royal duties in October, visiting Southport in northwest England to meet people affected by a knife attack that killed three young girls three months earlier. In November, she appeared at two remembrance events over consecutive days for Britons killed in the world wars and other conflicts, before also attending the Emir of Qatar’s state visit to Britain in December.
Conclusion
As the Princess of Wales marks another milestone birthday, it is clear that she has shown remarkable strength and resilience in the face of adversity. With her husband and children by her side, Kate is set to continue her royal duties and make more appearances in 2025.
FAQs
Q: What is Kate’s current health status?
A: Kate has finished her course of chemotherapy but her “path to healing and full recovery is long.”
Q: Where will Kate celebrate her birthday?
A: Kensington Palace has not revealed where the princess would mark the start of her 44th year.
Q: Will Kate and William make more appearances together in 2025?
A: Yes, they are set to make more appearances together as they eye a return to normality.
Q: Has Kate taken part in an official foreign visit since 2023?
A: No, her last official foreign visit was in October 2023, when she attended the Rugby World Cup in France.