Prince William and Kate Release First Joint Statement Since Her Cancer Diagnosis

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Prince William is standing firmly with his wife as she navigates her cancer diagnosis.

Today, the Prince and Princess of Wales released their first joint statement since Kate’s announcement Friday about her health.

“The Prince and Princess are both enormously touched by the kind messages from people here in the U.K., across the Commonwealth and around the world in response to Her Royal Highness’ message,” the statement from a Kensington Palace spokesperson and obtained by Harper’s Bazaar reads. “They are extremely moved by the public’s warmth and support and are grateful for the understanding of their request for privacy at this time.”

William has not spoken out individually on his wife’s condition, but Kate said in her

emotional video message that they have been spending quality time at home, with their kids.

Kate’s announcement was shared on Kensington Palace’s social media accounts, shocking the world. In it, she explained that doctors found the presence of cancer after she underwent an abdominal surgery in January. “The surgery was successful. However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present,” she said. “My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment.”

Now, Kate is continuing her treatment and healing at home, with her loved ones. She said in the video: “William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family.”

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

She also revealed that she and William told their three kids—Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 8, and Prince Louis, 5—about her diagnosis and assured them: “I’m going to be okay.”

She further asked the public to grant her and her family “some time, space, and privacy while I complete my treatment.”

Kate and William, who met as students at the University of St Andrews in 2001, dated for about 10 years before marrying in a beautiful royal ceremony at Westminster Abbey on Apr 29, 2011. They have since welcomed three children. (Look back at the timeline of their love story here.)

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