Princess Kate cancer diagnosis: Read her full statement to the public

After weeks of speculation, the Princess of Wales took to social media Friday to reveal her cancer diagnosis.

Buckingham Palace announced in January that Kate, 42, would remain out of the public eye while recovering from "planned abdominal surgery." However, her ongoing absence has since caused rumors to take off online, leading to rumors and conspiracy theories.

The former Kate Middleton joined the royal family when she married Prince William in 2011. The royal British couple share three young children, George, Charlotte and Louis.

She is the second royal to announce a health battle this year. The palace also announced in February that King Charles, 75, had been diagnosed with cancer.

Princess Kate video: Watch Princess' full announcement of cancer diagnosis here

Read the full Kate Middleton statement on her cancer diagnosis

"I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you personally for all the wonderful messages of support and for your understanding whilst I’ve been recovering from surgery. It has been an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family, but I’ve had a fantastic medical team who’ve taken great care of me for which I am so grateful.

In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time it was thought that my 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.

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. As you can imagine this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment. 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’m going to be okay.

As I’ve 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. Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance, too. As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both.

We hope that you’ll 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.

At this time, I’m also thinking of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer. For everyone facing this disease in whatever form please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Kate Middleton statement: Read her remarks on cancer diagnosis