Princess Kate, 43, is embracing a new chapter in her life with grace and positivity after announcing that she is in remission from cancer. Just days after sharing the uplifting news, the Princess of Wales was spotted running a down-to-earth errand, shopping at Finlay’s eyewear store in London’s Notting Hill neighborhood. Known for her love of the British brand, Kate’s outing highlighted her effort to return to normalcy while marking a significant milestone in her recovery.
A royal insider shared with PEOPLE, “She has drawn a line under the last year, and she can move forward. The word ‘remission’ is such a positive one to use, and it just feels like a veil has been lifted from their life.”
The Princess, who revealed her remission in a heartfelt statement on Jan. 14, has been candid about her cancer journey. After completing chemotherapy in September 2024, she stepped back into the spotlight with a surprise visit to The Royal Marsden Hospital, where she received treatment. During her visit, she thanked the hospital’s staff and reflected on the care she received, which she described as “exceptional.”
In a personal message shared on social media, Princess Kate expressed her gratitude, writing:
“I wanted to take the opportunity to say thank you to The Royal Marsden for looking after me so well during the past year. 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.”
Kate also spoke about her hopes for the future as the new Joint Patron of The Royal Marsden alongside Prince William. She plans to use her platform to promote advancements in cancer treatment, patient care, and family support.
“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,” she said.
The Princess’s visit to The Royal Marsden was also a deeply personal moment, as she met with staff and patients. Katherine Field, one of the patients Kate spoke with, described their conversation as a warm and relatable exchange. “It was just like talking to a friend about a really horrible time in life and how you find ways of getting through it. ‘Finding the new normal’ is what she said, which is absolutely true,” Field shared.
Princess Kate’s public return signals a new beginning for the royal. As she focuses on her recovery and adjusts to her “new normal,” she remains dedicated to her role, her family, and her advocacy work. “It is a relief to now be in remission, and I remain focused on recovery,” she stated. “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.”
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