In a heartfelt video message released on Friday, Kate, the Princess of Wales, shared a deeply personal update: she’s been diagnosed with cancer and is currently undergoing chemotherapy.

This news comes just two months after Kate underwent significant abdominal surgery, the details of which have been kept private.

The type of cancer Kate is battling hasn’t been disclosed, but Kensington Palace revealed that she began preventative chemotherapy in late February.

This announcement has led to a widespread show of support, especially poignant as her father-in-law, King Charles III, is also receiving cancer treatment.

Kate, 42, expressed in the video, filmed at Windsor on Wednesday, “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.”

Her vulnerability and strength were evident as she shared these words.

The discovery of Kate’s cancer came through post-operative tests following her planned abdominal surgery in mid-January.

Initially, the surgery was thought to address a non-cancerous condition.

“The surgery was successful,” Kate said. “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.”

Despite the initial belief that her condition was non-cancerous, the palace has been reserved in providing further details about her health.

Kate’s focus has been on her family, explaining, “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 OK.”

Kate acknowledged the immense support she’s received from her husband, Prince William, calling him “a great source of comfort and reassurance.”

She also expressed her desire for privacy during this challenging time, saying, “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.”

The Princess of Wales’ courage hasn’t gone unnoticed.

King Charles said he is “so proud of Catherine for her courage in speaking as she did,” according to a Buckingham Palace spokesperson.

The royal family, including Charles and Queen Camilla, have been closely supporting Kate through this ordeal. Prince Harry and Meghan also extended their wishes for Kate’s health and healing.

U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak praised Kate’s bravery, saying, “She has shown tremendous bravery with her statement today.”

He emphasized the need for privacy, especially given the intense scrutiny and unfair treatment she has faced in the media and on social media.

Sunak expressed the nation’s collective wish for her speedy recovery and return to her duties.

This announcement follows a challenging period for Kate, including a controversy over the editing of a Mother’s Day photo and reports of staff at the London Clinic trying to access her medical records.

Despite these difficulties, Kate continues to show resilience and grace, focusing on her recovery and her family during this trying time.

To hear Kate’s vulnerable message to the public, watch the video below.