Britain's Princess of Wales diagnosed with cancer

BRITAIN'S Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, has announced that she has been diagnosed with cancer and is in the early stages of being treated with chemotherapy.

In a video statement recorded by the BBC, the 42-year-old said the cancer had been discovered after she had major abdominal surgery in January.

The announcement comes after weeks of often feverish speculation and conspiracy theories about her health and the reason for her absence from public view.

Ms Middleton, who is married to Prince William, the heir to the British throne, said she and her husband had needed time to explain her illness to their three children, George, 10, Charlotte, eight, and Louis, five.

She said the diagnosis had come as “a huge shock”, and she said it had been “an incredibly tough couple of months”.

Details of the cancer have not been disclosed, but Kensington Palace said it was confident that Ms Middleton would make a full recovery.

Her statement said that when she had abdominal surgery in January, it was not known that there was any cancer.

“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,” she said.

She said she had been able to reassure her children that she would recover from her illness.

“As I have said to them; I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal, in my mind, body and spirits,” she said.

She said that having her husband by her side was a great source of comfort and reassurance.

“As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both.” 

Speculation about Ms Middleton reached fever pitch two weeks ago when the first official photograph to be released after her abdominal surgery was recalled by some of the world’s biggest picture agencies over claims it had been manipulated.

She later issued a public apology and said she had been responsible for digitally editing the Mother’s Day family photograph.

Ms Middleton asked in the statement issued on Friday for time and space for her to complete her treatment and said she looked forward to returning to royal duties.

She added that she was thinking of all those who have been affected by cancer.

“For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone.” 

The UK’s King Charles, who is also being treated for cancer, had been told about the state of the princess’ health, the BBC reported.