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After more than two months of public absence Kate, the Princess of Wales, has revealed she has been diagnosed with cancer.
On Friday, Kate posted a moving video statement to Instagram, where she shared an update on her health over the past few months.
“In January I underwent major abdominal surgery in London. At the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous,” she says.
“The surgery was successful, however tests after the operation found cancer had been present.”
The announcement comes amid a slew of conspiracy theories that have been widespread on social media and in the press over recent weeks.
Speculation reached fever pitch after an image of Kate and her children that was shared with the public for Mother's Day was revealed to have been heavily Photoshopped.
As conspiracy theories began to spread, it was revealed that a breach of Kate’s medical records at the London Clinic may have occurred. Two days later, Kate shared her devastating statement.
In her video message Kate explained that she and William wanted to share the news with their children before the rest of the world found out.
“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 okay,” she says.
“As I’ve said to them, I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on things that will help me heal.”
Kate, who is in the early stages of preventative chemotherapy, says she appreciates the love, support and kindness shown to her by the world.
“We hope that you’ll understand that as a family, we’ll need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment.
The Princess of Wales looks forward to returning to work but for now her focus remains on making a full recovery.
The statement also said the king has “remained in the closest contact with his beloved daughter-in-law throughout the past weeks” and that the king and queen "will continue to offer their love and support to the whole family through this difficult time.”
