A Royal Opening Up
The Princess of Wales, Catherine Middleton, has spoken out about her personal experience with cancer, describing the journey as “really difficult” during a recent visit to the RHS Wellbeing Garden at Colchester Hospital.
The Reality of Cancer Treatment
Catherine highlighted the challenges she faced after treatment, saying that despite putting on a “brave face”, the post-cancer phase has been a real struggle, where you’re no longer under the clinical team’s care, but still can’t function normally at home.
Finding a New Normal
Chatting with patients and staff, Catherine emphasized the importance of post-treatment support, revealing that finding a new normal takes time and is a rollercoaster experience, full of ups and downs, rather than a smooth journey as one might expect.
The Impact on Loved Ones
The Princess also shed light on how a cancer diagnosis can affect those close to the patient, stating that it’s a life-changing experience not just for the patient, but also for their families, and often the impact goes unrecognised, especially during the initial diagnosis.
Healing Powers of Nature
During her visit, Catherine planted flowers to highlight the therapeutic benefits of nature and promote awareness of its significance in enhancing physical and mental health, a cause close to her heart.
Raising Awareness and Funds
The “Catherine Roses” will be sold to raise funds for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, where the princess herself received treatment, a meaningful way to give back and support others going through similar experiences.
Balancing Royal Duties and Recovery
This appearance marked Catherine’s first public engagement since cancelling plans to attend Royal Ascot, as she continues to navigate the demands of her royal duties while prioritizing her recovery from cancer.
A Summer of Recovery
Royal Ascot, a prestigious five-day horse racing event, is a centrepiece of the summer social season in Britain, and although Catherine missed it, her focus on recovery and raising cancer awareness is a testament to her dedication to her royal duties and personal well-being.