TOUCHING WORDS
Kate Middleton’s statement in full as Princess reveals she’s been diagnosed with cancer
The royal said the news had come as a 'huge shock'
THE Princess of Wales has released a statement tonight revealing that she is undergoing treatment for cancer.
Kate, 42, underwent abdominal surgery in January and stayed at the London Clinic for 13 days while she recovered.
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The brave royal then took an extended leave from duties while she continued to recover, remaining quiet on details about the op.
She is not expected to return to royal duties until after Easter.
Her and William, 41, have faced cruel conspiracy rumours and unfair speculation on social media that has left the couple "shaken".
The London Clinic is now also investigating an alleged breach of the Princess' private medical records by three staff members.
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It is the second cancer shock to hit the royal family after King Charles was also diagnosed two months ago.
Kate's emotional video statement reads: "I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you, personally, for all the understanding whilst I’ve been recovering from surgery.
"It has been an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family but I have 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 my condition was non cancerous.
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"The surgery was succesful.
"However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present.
Kate Middleton has been terribly bullied but that wasn't why she revealed she has cancer
"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.
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- Kate's family share childhood photo and break silence
- King Charles says he’s ‘so proud’ of his daughter-in-law
- The Princess won’t return to royal duties until she’s cleared
- 'William is by my side' says Kate in shock cancer statement
- Kate's diagnosis 'was reason Will pulled out of service'
- Experts slam trolls who caused her more pain at a difficult time
"William and I have been doing everything we can to process 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 okay.
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"As I have said to them; I am well and i’m getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind body and spirit.
"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.
However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present
Princess Kate
"At this time, I am also thinking of all those lives affected by cancer.
"For everyone facing this disease in whatever form please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone.";
The announcement comes only months after King Charles was also diagnosed with the horrible disease.
Charles spent three nights at the same hospital receiving treatment for an "enlarged prostate".
Charles was pictured with Queen Camilla attending the morning service at St Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham in his first public appearance following his treatment on February 4.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has also released a statement wishing the princess well.
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He said: "She has shown tremendous bravery with her statement today.
"In recent weeks she has been subjected to intense scrutiny and has been unfairly treated by certain sections of the media around the world and on social media."
Timeline of royal health battles
HERE is a date-by-date rundown of the health battles to have struck the Royals this year.
JANUARY 16: Kate is admitted to the London Clinic for abdominal surgery.
JAN 17: It is announced that the King is to have treatment for a benign enlarged prostate.
JAN 18: William spends time at Kate’s bedside.
JAN 19: The King flies back from Scotland with the Queen.
JAN 21: It is announced Sarah, Duchess of York, has malignant melanoma, a skin cancer.
JAN 23: Kate’s hospital stay passes one week.
JAN 26: The King is admitted to the London Clinic for treatment.
JAN 29: The King is discharged from hospital. Kate leaves the same day.
JAN 31: Queen Camilla announces that the King is “getting on, doing his best”.
FEBRUARY 5: Buckingham Palace announces the King has cancer, but not of the prostate, and will not carry out public-facing duties.
FEB 18: The King appears in good spirits as he attends a Sunday church service in the grounds of Sandringham.
FEB 23: The King filmed crying and chuckling while opening some of the 7,000 cards from well-wishers.
FEB 27: Prince William pulls out of service last-minute due to 'personal matter', sparking wave of unfounded conspiracy theories about Kate's health.
MARCH 4: Kate Middleton pictured in the car with mum Carole on the Windsor estate.
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