“William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family.”manchester, united kingdom may 10 embargoed for publication in uk newspapers until 24 hours after create date and time catherine, duchess of cambridge and prince william, duke of cambridge attend the official opening of the glade of light memorial at manchester cathedral on may 10, 2022 in manchester, england the glade of light memorial commemorates the victims of the terrorist attack that took place after an ariana grande concert at manchester arena on may 22, 2017 photo by max mumbyindigogetty images

Princess Kate expressed her gratitude to husband Prince William while announcing her cancer diagnosis in a video released today.

In the clip, the Princess of Wales describes the health news—which doctors gave her after she underwent abdominal surgery in January—“as a huge shock.” She added, “William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family.”

She revealed that she is “now in the early stages” of preventative chemotherapy, and that William has been a pillar to lean on amid this process.

“Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance, too,” Kate continued. “As is the love, support, and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both.”

She emphasized her desire for privacy as she continues treatment. “We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space, and privacy while I complete my treatment,” she said. “My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to being back when I’m able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery.”

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A palace source told Bazaar that William “will continue to balance supporting his wife and family and maintaining his official duties, as he has done since the start of the year.”

Although Kensington Palace initially stated that Kate would not likely return to public duties until Easter, which falls on March 31 this year, her cancer diagnosis has changed the timeline for her return. The source confirmed that she and her family will not attend this year’s royal Easter service. “The Princess will return to official duties when she is cleared to do so by her medical team,” the insider said. “She is in good spirits and is focused on making a full recovery.”