Kate Middleton recently made a last-minute decision to cancel a planned appearance at Royal Ascot. After undergoing cancer treatment last year, it was announced in January that she is in remission. Since then, the Princess of Wales has been easing back into her royal duties. But, while still in recovery, Middleton is trying to find the right balance amid the pressure of public life.Â
Kate Middleton Was Expected at Royal Ascot for the First Time in Two Years
Kensington Palace announced in March 2024 that Middleton had received a diagnosis for an undisclosed form of cancer. In the weeks prior to the announcement, there was relentless speculation about her well-being when her very public life suddenly turned private.
While going through chemotherapy treatment, Kate’s schedule was completely cleared. She missed all of the traditional royal social events and ceremonial commitments throughout 2024.
Now returning to public life at her own pace, Kate scheduled an appearance on June 18th at Royal Ascot for the first time in two years. The princess was expected to take part in this social event on the second day of the races when Prince William presented the trophy to the winner of the Princes of Wales’ Stakes. But, she ended up making her first major cancellation since returning to her royal duties.
Insider Reveals the Reason Behind the Absence
Queen Elizabeth’s former spokeswoman Alisa Anderson recently told People why Middleton suddenly backed out.Â
“Sheâs being sensible, listening to what her body is telling her and easing back into public life,” Anderson explained.
A second source pointed out that the princess “has not been able to have the privacy that a person who faces this kind of illness is normally afforded.”
Middleton had already been listed in the official carriage procession before the decision was made to skip the event. The palace made it clear that decisions are being made about appearances on a case-by-case basis. The Princess of Wales was reportedly “disappointed” about missing out on Royal Ascot.
Kate Middleton is Focusing on Her Well-Being
Prince William attended the event solo, and was part of the Royal Procession along with King Charles, Queen Camilla, and Prince Saud bin Khalid Al-Saud of Saudi Arabia.
Middleton was able to attend Trooping the Colour on June 14 with William and their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. She also joined William at the Garter Day Service at St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle on June 16.
Taking things one day at a time, the Princess of Wales is balancing her recovery with family time and her public duties. She’s also taking re-examining priorities and setting boundaries. This new approach is the result of taking an entire year off so both she and Prince William could focus on her well-being.
“They were able to step back and reassess their priorities in all aspects of their lives,” a royal friend revealed.
As Middleton explained on X in January, “It is a relief to now be in remission and I remain focused on recovery. As anyone who has experienced a cancer diagnosis will know, it takes time to adjust to a new normal. I am however looking forward to a fulfilling year ahead. There is much to look forward to. Thank you to everyone for your continued support.”
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