Princess Kate Middleton of Wales revealed a shocking cancer diagnosis on Friday.
Kate, aged 42, had remained out of the public eye since Christmas until a recent video emerged showing her accompanied by her husband, Prince William, the future monarch, strolling from a farm shop close to their residence in Windsor.
She said, "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."
Limited information had been provided by Kensington Palace regarding Kate's state, other than confirming that her surgery, unrelated to cancer, had been effective, and she would be on recovery leave from official engagements until April. Kate mentioned that initially, her condition was believed to be non-cancerous until further tests disclosed the diagnosis.
Following the announcement, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed the news in a statement to the media.
Jean-Pierre said that, "Our thoughts are with the Duchess of Cambridge and her family members and friends during this incredibly difficult time." She further affirmed that they "wish her a full recovery."
She also disclosed that she "think's it's important that we respect their privacy, especially at this time, so I am not going to go further than that."
Jean-Pierre also wanted to preempt questions as to whether President Biden has recently spoken with the Princess, by stating that, they "don't have anything to share at this time."
She closed by reiterating that they "wish the Duchess of Cambridge a full recovery and we are incredibly sad to hear of the news."
In a statement issued by Buckingham Palace, Prince Charles said he is "so proud of Catherine for her courage in speaking as she did," the Associated Press reported.
The 75-year-old monarch has remained in "closest contact with his beloved daughter-in-law" as she continues to navigate the disease, the palace said.
Charles - who is also battling cancer - and Kate were hospitalized at the same time, earlier this year.
On Instagram, Kate's brother, James Middleton, announced his support for his older sister.
"Over the years, we have climbed many mountains together. As a family, we will climb this one with you too," he captioned an undated photo of the pair.
Welsh actress Catherine Zeta-Jones also chimed in on Instagram, writing, "Wales and the World is with you ♥️ HRH Princess of Wales. Love to you always."
Similarly, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak offered his condolences to the princess.
"The Princess of Wales has the love and support of the whole country as she continues her recovery," he said in a statement posted to X.
"She has shown tremendous bravery with her statement today," Sunak said, before calling out the media and the public over the "intense scrutiny" he accused them of subjecting her to since January. "When it comes to matters of health, like everyone else, she must be afforded the privacy to focus on her treatment and be with her loving family."
"I know I speak for the whole country in wishing her a full and speedy recovery and look forward to seeing her back in action when she's ready," he concluded.
