While the princess said she was hoping to take part in other events this year, aides cautioned that this did not mark a return to a full schedule of work.
“My treatment is ongoing and will be for a few more months,” she said. “I’m looking forward to attending The King’s Birthday Parade this weekend with my family and hope to join a few public engagements over the summer, but equally knowing I am not out of the woods yet.”
Abdominal surgery
Catherine spent two weeks in hospital in January after undergoing major abdominal surgery, and two months later, she announced in a video message that tests had revealed the presence of cancer, and she would begin preventative chemotherapy.
The royal family greeting the crowd from the balcony of Buckingham Palace after the Trooping The Colour parade last year.Credit: AP
Her office, Kensington Palace, has declined to give further details about the type of cancer or her treatment other than to say the preventative chemotherapy had begun in February.
In her message, Catherine said on days when she felt well it was “a joy to engage with school life, spend personal time on the things that give me energy and positivity”. As part of that, she was starting to do work from home, and was able to hold some meetings.
“I am learning how to be patient, especially with uncertainty,” said the princess, who is often known by her maiden name, Kate Middleton. “Taking each day as it comes, listening to my body, and allowing myself to take this much-needed time to heal.”
A new photo of the princess was also released to coincide with her message, showing Catherine looking well-dressed in a jacket and jeans, standing under a tree on the Windsor estate to the west of London, where the family home is located.
Her illness has coincided with that of Charles, 75, who has also been undergoing treatment for cancer. He returned to public duties in April and has remained busy, although his diary commitments are being limited to minimise risks to his recovery.
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“His Majesty is delighted that the princess is able to attend tomorrow’s events and is much looking forward to all elements of the day,” a Buckingham Palace spokesperson said.
Kensington Palace also said William was pleased to see Catherine starting to return to the work and projects that were so important to her.
“He will continue to focus his time on supporting his wife and children while continuing to undertake his public duties,” a spokesperson said.