Kate Middleton’s Cancer Battle: ‘Fortunate’ to Survive
London, England, June 26, 2025 — The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, faced a life-threatening cancer battle that left her “really seriously ill,” with insiders now revealing she is “fortunate” to be in recovery, according to a shocking new report.
In January 2024, Kate underwent planned abdominal surgery at the London Clinic, initially described as non-cancerous. However, subsequent tests revealed an unspecified form of cancer, leading to a grueling 18-month course of preventative chemotherapy at the Royal Marsden Hospital. “She was really seriously ill last year and underwent a significant period of chemo,” a source told the Daily Mail’s royal correspondent Rebecca English, emphasizing the severity of her condition. “I can say that, from what I understand, she is fortunate to even be speaking of recovery,” English reported, citing her deep palace connections.
The news comes amid heightened public concern following Kate’s last-minute withdrawal from the Royal Ascot races on June 18, 2025, where she was expected to appear alongside Prince William. The decision, attributed to exhaustion after recent public engagements like Trooping the Colour, sparked speculation about her health. “Kate is recalibrating her entire life,” a source said, noting that the princess is prioritizing her recovery over royal duties. The intense public scrutiny, compounded by past family tensions and King Charles’ own cancer diagnosis, has taken a toll, prompting her to adopt a more cautious approach.
Kate, who announced her remission in January 2025, has described her cancer journey as “complex, scary, and unpredictable.” During a recent visit to the Royal Marsden Hospital, she spoke candidly about the long-term effects of chemotherapy, noting it can leave patients feeling unwell for years. Despite her recovery, insiders stress it remains a “work in progress,” with Kate gaining “mental clarity” about balancing her health and responsibilities.
What’s Next? Kate is expected to resume limited public duties, with appearances planned at the Wimbledon Championships starting June 30 and a French state visit meet-and-greet at Windsor Castle on July 8. She and Prince William, along with their children, are also set to retreat to Anmer Hall for a quiet summer. While her resilience has been praised, the palace remains guarded, with no further details on her specific diagnosis. Her cautious return signals a new chapter, but the road to full recovery remains long, with potential implications for her role in the royal family.