Kate Middleton, accompanied by Prince William, paid an unannounced visit to a hospital, sharing a poignant reflection that touched upon her own cancer treatment journey. During her stop at Charing Cross Hospital in west London on January 8th, the 43-year-old Princess of Wales opened up in conversation with a volunteer who works with chemotherapy patients.
The volunteer spoke about how patients and visitors often spend "hours" at the hospital, to which Princess Kate replied, "I know." Hello! magazine reported her as adding, "We know," as she touched Prince William's arm. The 43-year-old prince also referenced his wife's cancer treatment during the hospital visit, telling staff, according to The Sun, "Both of us have had different experiences with hospitals. Me working with the air ambulance; Catherine with her recent health journey."
He continued, "And coming here today and reminding ourselves just how important all the teams are, all the staff, the patients. It’s so heartwarming, and it’s so important that we acknowledge and appreciate all that goes on in the NHS and that very strong bond between patient and carer."
This was a rare and emotional revelation from the Princess of Wales about her own health journey, after undergoing treatment for cancer in 2024. In March 2024, Princess Kate released a video message announcing that she was receiving treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer. She reduced her royal duties to focus on her health and said in September 2024 that she had completed chemotherapy treatment.
In January 2025, she shared with "relief" that she was in remission, making the announcement after visiting The Royal Marsden Hospital's Chelsea hub. That update came after the princess visited the renowned cancer center and coincided with the confirmation that she received treatment from the Royal Marsden during her cancer journey.
Princess Kate returned to a more regular schedule of royal work in 2025 and kicked off 2026 with William, making a surprise joint appearance to start the new year's royal duties. The royal couple and joint patrons of NHS Charities Together visited Charing Cross Hospital to highlight the work of NHS staff and volunteers as they respond to increased demand for services during the winter months. William and Kate surprised healthcare staff on their tea break and heard about the pressures they face during the winter virus season, then met with volunteers who help improve care for patients and alleviate pressure from the wider workforce.
The Prince and Princess of Wales stepped out together after their children, Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7, returned to school after a break and before a special day: Princess Kate's 44th birthday on Friday, Jan. 9.
