Kate’s message is full of positive news – but comes with caveats
As the speculation about Kate’s health had again started to build – along with rumours about whether she would be at Trooping the Colour – this will be seen as positive news from a woman, who like every other cancer patient, has clearly been going through a tough time.
Let’s start with the good news. We will see Kate at the King’s Birthday Parade tomorrow.
It’s a huge occasion for the Royal Family, where we’re almost guaranteed to see Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
As their mother, it is clear Kate wants to be with them and that’s why she won’t just appear on the Buckingham Palace balcony but will be in a carriage alongside her children to watch the military parade, before making an appearance for the traditional flypast.
In her message, she talks a lot about family and while, for most of us, Trooping the Colour isn’t a typical family gathering, it is one of the rare moments of the year when the Windsors all spend time together.
Staying with the positives, we’re told Kate will possibly attend other engagements this summer, and she’s also been doing some official work and having briefings.
But all of this comes with caveats. We’re told we shouldn’t see this as the princess returning to full royal duties.
She is still having preventative chemotherapy treatment and will work with doctors to decide how much it is wise for her to do.
In the meantime, it’s Kate’s children who are keeping her going when she talks fondly about engaging with school life. The photograph released also speaks to how time outdoors, surrounded by nature, is helping her emotionally heal.
Among the thousands of letters she has received, the impact of her sharing her diagnosis has become clear thanks to those going through similar journeys who have reached out. Again, her message is personal and speaks to others going through similar challenges.