Kate returns to the hospital where she was treated for cancer
In a surprise visit, the Princess of Wales made her first royal engagement of the year today, at the Royal Marsden Hospital.
The solo trip saw Kate thank doctors and speak to other cancer patients as she attended the Chelsea site. It is the first time it has been publicly confirmed that the Royal Marsden was where Kate was treated for cancer last year.
As she arrived, the princess reportedly told onlookers that coming in the front entrance was “actually quite nice” after having previously made “so many quiet, private visits”.
As she spoke to others going through cancer treatment, Kate urged patients to “keep doing things that give you joy”.
“It makes you appreciate all the small things in life that you take for granted,” she said, per Sky News.
A Kensington Palace spokesperson said Kate wanted to “show her gratitude to the incredible team, but also highlight the world-leading care and treatment the Marsden provides”.
The visit comes as both Kate and her husband, Prince William, become Joint Patrons of The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust. Previous patrons include the late Diana, Princess of Wales.
Dame Cally Palmer, chief executive of The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, said in a statement: “We were honoured to welcome Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales to The Royal Marsden in Chelsea this morning, and are delighted that Her Royal Highness is now joining His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales in becoming Joint Patrons of our specialist cancer centre.
“We are incredibly fortunate to receive Royal Patronage – it is inspiring for staff and patients and enables us to shine a light on the outstanding work our staff deliver every day for patients and their families.”
In March last year, the princess underwent a round of preventative chemotherapy, after tests following abdominal surgery found cancer had been present.
She described the experience as “incredibly tough” in a rare, personal video released by the royals in September. “Life as you know it can change in an instant,” she said. “With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerabilities in a way you have never considered before, and with that, a new perspective on everything.”
Prince William praised his wife recently, sharing a picture to mark her birthday and calling her “the most incredible wife and mother”.
He added: “The strength you've shown over the last year has been remarkable. George, Charlotte, Louis and I are so proud of you. Happy Birthday, Catherine. We love you. W.”
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