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For her first public appearance of the New Year, the Princess of Wales returned to The Royal Marsden. On Tuesday, Her Royal Highness visited the hospital where she received treatment last year. During the outing, which marked her first solo engagement since 2023, Catherine met with staff and patients who are undergoing treatment.
"I wanted to take the opportunity to say thank you to The Royal Marsden for looking after me so well during the past year," she penned in a personal message following her visit. "My heartfelt thanks goes to all those who have quietly walked alongside William and me as we have navigated everything. We couldn’t have asked for more. The care and advice we have received throughout my time as a patient has been exceptional."
It was announced on Jan. 14 that the Princess and Prince William have become joint patrons of The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust. In her message, Catherine wrote, "In my new role as Joint Patron of The Royal Marsden, my hope is, that by supporting groundbreaking research and clinical excellence, as well as promoting patient and family wellbeing, we might save many more lives, and transform the experience of all those impacted by cancer."
"It is a relief to now be in remission and I remain focussed on recovery. As anyone who has experienced a cancer diagnosis will know, it takes time to adjust to a new normal," she continued. "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. C."
The Princess of Wales revealed last March that she was undergoing a course of preventative chemotherapy. Months later in September, Catherine shared that she had finished her treatment. At the time, she said, "As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy 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. 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," the Princess of Wales added. "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."
Prince William praised his wife's "strength" in a heartfelt tribute for her 43rd birthday last week. Alongside a photo of Catherine, the heir to the throne wrote, "To the most incredible wife and mother. The strength you’ve shown over the last year has been remarkable. George, Charlotte, Louis and I are so proud of you. Happy Birthday, Catherine. We love you. W."