The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton says she has been diagnosed with cancer and is undergoing preventative chemotherapy.
The 42-year-old said she had a susscesful abdominal surgery in January, it was initially assumed her condition was non-cancerous.
However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present, she said: “This of course came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family.”
Doctors had advised her to have a course of preventative chemotherapy and she is currently in the early stages of that treatment.
“It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment,” she said.
“But, most importantly, it has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be ok.
“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 Prince William‘s support as a “great source of comfort and reassurance,” adding: “As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you – it means much to us both.”
Kensington Palace said it would not be sharing the type of cancer, adding: “The princess has a right to medical privacy, as we all do.”
Kate commenced chemotherapy in late February, although it is unclear when it will end.
It is also unclear when the princess will return to official duties – the palace said she would do this “when she is cleared to do so by her medical team”.