JERSEY’S Bailiff has wished the Princess of Wales a “quick and full recovery” after she announced she is being treated for cancer.
The revelation yesterday evening that Kate is undergoing “preventative chemotherapy” sparked an outpouring of support and well wishes from around the world.
In a statement posted on Facebook, Sir Timothy Le Cocq said: “The Princess of Wales has spoken this evening of her cancer diagnosis.
“She has made her statement with clarity and dignity. The Prince and Princess of Wales are facing this challenge together with resolve and are working to protect their young family.
“As an island, we are behind them and offer them our support and best wishes at this challenging time.
“We all hope for a quick and full recovery.”
In an emotional video message, Kate spoke about the “huge shock” after tests identified cancer following her abdominal surgery and the “incredibly tough couple of months” her family have experienced.
The King, diagnosed with cancer in February, is said to be “proud” of his “beloved” daughter-in-law for her “courage” in speaking about her treatment and has remained in close contact during the past few weeks.
Words of support also came from the Duke and Duchess of Sussex who said: “We wish health and healing for Kate and the family, and hope they are able to do so privately and in peace.”
The form of cancer has not been disclosed but the future Queen began a course of preventative chemotherapy late in February, and is said to have a positive mindset for her recovery and is in good spirits, describing herself as “well and getting stronger every day”.
Prince William and Kate have focused on their children, taking the time to sensitively share the state of the princess’s health with Prince George, Prince Charlotte and Prince Louis.
Political leaders have expressed sympathy and support for Kate and criticised what Prime Minister Rishi Sunak described as the “intense scrutiny” she has faced from social media and sections of the media around the world.
On Friday evening, hashtags including “WeLoveYouCatherine” and “GetWellSoonCatherine” were trending on X, formerly Twitter, while celebrities, cancer survivors and medics all sent messages of support.
With the head of state and the future Queen both receiving treatment for cancer the royal family faces an uncertain period, but the monarchy is expected to rally round to support those at the heart of the institution.
Speaking in the video message recorded on Wednesday in Windsor, the princess said: “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 is understood the video was released on the day William and Kate’s three children began their Easter school holidays, to take advantage of the break to shield them from coverage of their mother’s health.
Charles has been receiving treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer since early February after he was treated for an enlarged prostate at the same hospital where Kate had surgery.
Buckingham Palace said: “His Majesty is so proud of Catherine for her courage in speaking as she did.
“Following their time in hospital together, HM has remained in the closest contact with his beloved daughter-in-law throughout the past weeks.
“Both Their Majesties will continue to offer their love and support to the whole family through this difficult time.”
Kate’s brother James Middleton posted a message of support for his sibling on Instagram: “Over the years, we have climbed many mountains together. As a family, we will climb this one with you too,” ending with a mountain and heart emoji.
The announcement may go some way to ending weeks of intense speculation and conspiracy theories on social media about the whereabouts and health of the future Queen.
Kate ended her video message by saying: “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.”
