Catherine, Princess of Wales, has been diagnosed with cancer, which she shared weeks after undergoing surgery in January. 

The Princess of Wales addressed the world on Friday via a video message, in which she revealed that she has been diagnosed with cancer and is in the early stages of preventative chemotherapy. 

Princess Kate, 42, who has been under intense scrutiny to reveal further details about the abdominal surgery she underwent in January, revealed that cancer had been discovered during postoperative tests. 

She said the news came as “a huge shock,” and added that she and Prince William have told their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.

The full text of Princess Kate’s statement is below:

I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you, personally, for all the wonderful messages of support, and for your understanding whilst I have 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 have 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 noncancerous. 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 preventative 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 am going to be okay.

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.

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 will 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 am 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 story will be updated.