William and Kate ‘enormously touched’ by public support
A spokesperson from Kensington Palace has relayed that the Prince and Princess of Wales are deeply moved by the outpouring of kind messages they’ve received in response to Catherine’s cancer diagnosis.
They also express gratitude for the understanding shown regarding their request for privacy during this challenging time.
Catherine shared her diagnosis in a video message, stating that treatment has commenced following tests conducted after abdominal surgery revealed the presence of cancer.
The Palace spokesperson conveyed, “The Prince and Princess are profoundly touched by the heartfelt messages from individuals across the UK, throughout the Commonwealth, and globally, in response to Her Royal Highness’ announcement.
They are deeply appreciative of the warmth and support shown by the public, and they recognize and value the respect for their privacy during this period.”
This statement marks the conclusion of public updates from the royal couple for the foreseeable future. It serves as both an expression of gratitude and a gentle reminder, signaling that further public discourse on the matter is not desired.
Additionally, it acknowledges the overwhelmingly positive reception of Catherine’s video message, which has garnered nearly five million likes on Instagram.
In light of recent toxicity on social media surrounding the princess’s health, the statement aims to draw a line under speculations. Kensington Palace hopes that this final “thank you” message will bring closure to this phase of the princess’s diagnosis.
The past few weeks have been tough for the royal couple, their children, and the team around them who have been trying to dampen down the gossip and rumor – a task that proved impossible.
The statement recognizes the global interest in the princess’s condition with a nod to the UK, the Commonwealth, and the world.
But it is the last few words that are perhaps the most meaningful – they are a direct appeal for privacy as they try to escape the glare.
Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis started their school Easter holiday on Friday.
They do not return to school until 17 April and we do not expect to see or hear from the family during the break.
They have made it very clear that this is family time that they will protect fiercely.
The central element of any royal Easter is the church service on Easter Sunday, which is usually a strong gathering of royals at St George’s Chapel in Windsor.
Prince William and Catherine have already said they will not attend the service this year, but we may see King Charles III lead the family to church.
Buckingham Palace says they are “hopeful” he will be able to join the family next weekend.
The King has said he is “so proud” of his “beloved daughter-in-law” and that he and Camilla are in the “closest contact” with her.
And the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are understood to have reached out privately to Catherine and William, also releasing a statement wishing her “health and healing” and the space to recover “privately and in peace”.
Nearly all of Sunday’s papers lead with reaction to news of the Princess of Wales’ cancer diagnosis.
The Sunday Express wrote of “a nation touched” by the “courage and dignity” of Catherine while The Daily Star Sunday recalled some of the speculation about her health before the announcement, saying celebrities had now “rushed to apologize”.
Among well-wishers visiting Windsor on Saturday was Linda Boby, from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, who told PA: “It’s such a shock, she’s such a young lady and she deserves her privacy.”
