In 2021, the Duchess of Cambridge, née Kate Middleton, is recovering from preventative chemotherapy following the discovery of cancer cells during abdominal surgery in January. The news comes just weeks after her sister-in-law Meghan Markle and her husband Prince Harry announced they were stepping down as working royals and relocating to California. It’s believed that Kate will be focusing on her recovery, with the Duke of Cambridge reportedly taking paternity leave from work to care for his wife and children.
The Duchess’ health has been a topic of interest in recent months, after it was revealed she had undergone emergency treatment for a severe headache at Kensington Palace last August. The diagnosis of a brain tumour was later ruled out by doctors, who attributed the symptoms to severe morning sickness during her third pregnancy with Prince Louis.
In recent years, there has been growing tension between the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, as they have struggled to find their place within the royal family. The rift emerged when the Sussexes stepped down as working royals and moved to Montecito, California, prompting criticism from some quarters that they were ‘giving up’ on their roles for financial gain.
However, in line with the sentiment expressed by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in a statement following Kate’s health news, it’s likely Meghan will be allowing her friend to focus on her recovery while she begins promotion for her lifestyle brand.
While it’s not yet known how long Kate will be recovering for or what treatment she may undergo, it’s expected that she will receive the full support of her family and friends as she recovers. The Duke of Cambridge is also believed to have taken paternity leave from work to care for his wife and children during this difficult time.
In the meantime, it’s likely that Meghan Markle and Prince Harry will be working hard to repair their relationship with William and Kate, as they continue to navigate their new lives in California.
