Kate Middleton makes heartfelt statement days after royal no-show

Days after her unexpected absence from Royal Ascot, Kate Middleton has released a moving public message in support of Children's Hospice Week, reaffirming her commitment to causes close to her heart.

In the statement, the Princess of Wales acknowledged the immense emotional toll families face when a child is diagnosed with a life-limiting condition. 

“No parent expects to hear that their child has a serious health condition… Being able to access the support of one of the UK’s 54 children’s hospices means they don’t have to face that future alone,” she wrote.

As Royal Patron of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) and Tŷ Hafan in South Wales, Kate praised the “life-changing” care these institutions provide. 

She described the work of hospice teams as “lifting spirits through laughter, fun and play, as well as listening, holding, caring and sharing.”

Her statement comes during Children's Hospice Week (June 16–22), led by the charity Together for Short Lives.

The announcement is Kate’s first public message since pulling out of Royal Ascot last minute due to her ongoing recovery from cancer. 

Royal aides say she is “listening to her body” and returning to engagements at her own pace.

What is Kate Middleton's diagnosis?

Princess Kate shared her cancer diagnosis in March of last year. In a video message she explained that in January last year, she underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at that time, it was thought that her condition was non-cancerous.

“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 preventive chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment,” she shared.

However, she has now completed treatment and is now in remission. 

RELATED: Kate Middleton is crushing Meghan Markle on Instagram: Here's how