It is to her credit, and that of her ever-protective husband, that they and their team have forged a new path to suit their family.

“The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate,” they said.

“She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible; and her wish that her personal medical information remains private.”

Presumably they realised that two weeks in hospital and a long absence from public life would inevitably find its way to public ears, and chose to share information on their own terms.

Such has been their policy throughout their married lives, from the births of their children to the authorised photographs of them growing up, finding their own line between tradition and modernity. No cat and mouse games with the press, no disdain for the public who admire them.

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That modernity shines through the decisions from William, too. He will not be ploughing on, but will stay by his wife’s bedside while she needs him and be at home to fill the gaps her convalescence will leave.

For the next-in-line to the throne in an institution that prides itself on duty before all, it is no small thing: a different kind of duty, emphasising the ongoing function and happiness of the family as well as their commitment to public life.

The King, too, has chosen to sacrifice a little of his privacy for the greater good. Who could imagine a monarch sharing news of such an intimate diagnosis before now?

Above all, it is a pertinent reminder that they are human.

Engagements postponed

Both the princess and the King will need to postpone their public engagements.

They will almost certainly never share the level of discomfort they have been enduring behind their smiles.

Catherine has recently faced criticism for her lack of overseas tours, her engagements held close to home in Windsor and a schedule that has seemed sparse. This ought to give those critics pause for thought.

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One day, she may – like Charles – choose to share more details of her diagnosis to boost public awareness. If not, that is her choice alone.

If previous generations of the royal family were celebrated for their stiff upper lip and “keep calm and carry on” mentality, the new reign is ushering in a new spirit of collaborative openness.

By politely inviting the public to give them privacy while sharing enough to answer their questions, they set the tone of dignity, honesty, trust and respect.

“The Princess of Wales wishes to apologise to all those concerned for the fact that she has to postpone her upcoming engagements,” said Kensington Palace on Wednesday.

A nation will respond in kind: no apologies necessary.

The Telegraph, London