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The Prince and Princess of Wales have unveiled their 2024 Christmas card featuring a photo with Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. Their Royal Highness opted for a previously seen photo that was captured by Will Warr, who filmed the family back in August for the video that Catherine used to announce that she had completed her chemotherapy treatment.
The poignant image shows Catherine sitting between her husband and daughter Princess Charlotte. The young Princess sweetly wrapped her arms around her mother and older brother, Prince George's necks, while Prince Louis cuddled close to his dad.
"Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and New Year," the message inside of the card reads. The holiday card was shared on the Waleses' social media accounts on Dec. 19.
Prince William, whose father King Charles was diagnosed with a form of cancer this year and whose wife Catherine started a course of preventative chemotherapy in late February, has described this year as "dreadful." During his visit to South Africa in November, the heir to the throne admitted, "It's probably been the hardest year in my life. So, trying to get through everything else and keep everything on track has been really difficult."
"I'm so proud of my wife, I'm proud of my father, for handling the things that they have done," the Prince added, but noted that "from a personal family point of view, it's been brutal."
The Princess revealed in early September the she had finished her treatment. "The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown. The cancer journey is complex, scary and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you," Her Royal Highness said in a personal message. "With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerabilities in a way you have never considered before, and with that, a new perspective on everything. This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted. Of simply loving and being loved."
"Doing what I can to stay cancer free is now my focus. Although I have finished chemotherapy, my path to healing and full recovery is long and I must continue to take each day as it comes. I am however looking forward to being back at work and undertaking a few more public engagements in the coming months when I can. Despite all that has gone before I enter this new phase of recovery with a renewed sense of hope and appreciation of life," Catherine continued. "William and I are so grateful for the support we have received and have drawn great strength from all those who are helping us at this time. Everyone’s kindness, empathy and compassion has been truly humbling. To all those who are continuing their own cancer journey – I remain with you, side by side, hand in hand. Out of darkness, can come light, so let that light shine bright."
The Waleses got into the holiday spirit earlier this month, attending the Princess of Wales' fourth "Together at Christmas" carol service. The family will be celebrating Christmas at Sandringham again this year. Prince William spoke about their plans while visiting soldiers and their families in Bulford last week. According to PEOPLE, the royal dad of three said, “We’ll be in Norfolk, at Sandringham. We'll be 45 for Christmas. It won't be quiet, it will be noisy."
