The Princess of Wales has received an outpour of support and well-wishes from around the world, including Hollywood stars and world leaders, when she revealed the news of her cancer diagnosis.
In an unprecedented move, Princess Kate released a deeply emotional video message on Friday, in which she spoke about the "huge shock" after tests identified cancer following her abdominal surgery.
Upon seeing the video on Instagram, Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway acknowledged the news by "liking" the post. Prince Abdul Mateen of Brunei was also among those to react.
In the footage, Kate detailed the "incredibly tough couple of months" her family have experienced. "In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous," she said.
"The surgery was successful. 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.
"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."
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The video was released on the day William and Kate's three children began their Easter school holidays, to take advantage of the break to shield them from coverage of their mother's health.
Princess Kate added: "It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment. But, most importantly, 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.
"As I have said to them; I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits."
Political leaders around the world have expressed sympathy and support for Kate, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak praising her "tremendous bravery" for speaking out. He also stated that the Princess had been "unfairly treated" and "subjected to intense scrutiny" in recent weeks and called for her to be given the privacy to focus on her recovery and be with her family.
Words of support also came from the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who said: "We wish health and healing for Kate and the family, and hope they are able to do so privately and in peace."
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The form of cancer has not been disclosed but Princess Kate began a course of "preventative chemotherapy" late in February, and is said to have a positive mindset for her recovery and is in good spirits, describing herself as "well and getting stronger every day".