Duchess Kate reveals cancer battle amidst conspiracy theories

Rumors suggested she was long dead, set to be the next Princess Diana, hiding from her husband's infidelity, or donating her organs to King Charles III. Theories about Duchess Kate have been piling up since December 2023, all because of her absence from public life. Experts on the British royal family from TikTok have been creating increasingly abstract conspiracy theories, all sharing one common theme—the potential death of the future queen of the United Kingdom. However, the truth turned out to be much more mundane and, at the same time, sadder.

On March 22, 2024, the official account of Prince William and Duchess Kate released a video in which the duchess explained her absence. Kate informed the public that doctors had found cancer cells in her body, though she did not specify the type of cancer. Physicians referred Catherine for preventive chemotherapy, which has been affecting her mental and physical health. Many people assume that Kate was forced to release the video due to the growing speculations about her absence. The duchess did not indicate how long the treatment would last or when she might resume her role representing the monarchy.

In June, royal family fans again turned their attention to Kate due to the upcoming Trooping the Colour, the official celebration of Charles III's birthday. One element of the celebration is the royal family's appearance on the balcony of Buckingham Palace. Fans wondered whether the duchess's health condition would allow her to participate in the celebration. The answer came via Instagram.

In a statement, Duchess Kate wrote: "I have been blown away by all the kind messages of support and encouragement over the last couple of months. It really has made the world of difference to William and me and has helped us both through some of the harder times. I am making good progress, but as anyone going through chemotherapy will know, there are good days and bad days. On those bad days you feel weak, tired and you have to give in to your body resting. But on the good days, when you feel stronger, you want to make the most of feeling well"

Kate continued: "My treatment is ongoing and will be for a few more months. On the days I feel well enough, it is a joy to engage with school life, spend personal time on the things that give me energy and positivity, as well as starting to do a little work from home. I’m looking forward to attending The King’s Birthday Parade this weekend with my family and hope to join a few public engagements over the summer, but equally knowing I am not out of the woods yet."

She concluded her statement with gratitude for royal family fans and those who supported her on her difficult journey towards health: "Thank you so much for your continued understanding and to all of you who have so bravely shared your stories with me."