Prince William dropped out of the ceremony honoring his godfather King Constantine of Greece last month amid Kate Middleton’s cancer treatment. The Princess of Wales, 42, revealed on Friday that she is undergoing treatment for cancer, which was discovered in post-operative tests related to her abdominal surgery on Jan. 16.
On Feb. 27, the Prince of Wales, 41, pulled out of the service of Thanksgiving at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle honoring his godfather at the last minute. At the time, the palace revealed he was unable to attend due to a personal matter. Prince William was set to do a reading at the service, according to the order of service.
William’s godfather Constantine, who was the last King of Greece, died in January 2023 at age 82. The Prince of Wales informed the late King’s family that he was unable to attend ahead of the event. Queen Camilla, 76, formally led the British royal family at the service, stepping in for her husband, King Charles, who is also undergoing cancer treatment and has canceled most public-facing duties. She was joined by family and friends as well as royals from around the world.
The Princess of Wales, 42, shared her health news on Friday in a personal video message. “In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London, and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous,” she said. “The surgery was successful. 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.”
“We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment. My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy, and I look forward to being back when I am able — but for now, I must focus on making a full recovery,” she said.