Emotional cancer sufferers have praised Kate Middleton‘s ‘vulnerability’ after the Princess of Wales’ released a deeply personal video to the nation that she had completed her chemotherapy.
Kate, who revealed she was suffering from an undisclosed cancer in February, made the announcement to the delight of millions that she had finished her course of ‘preventative chemotherapy’ and was now focusing on staying ‘cancer free’.
In the video, the mother-of-three, who has been graciously candid about with her own struggles with the disease, left a deeply moving and emotional message to fellow cancer patients and their families, saying: ‘To all those who are continuing their own cancer journey – I remain with you, side by side, hand in hand.Â
‘Out of darkness, can come light, so let that light shine bright.’
Thousands have responded to this online, praising her own ‘vulnerability’ as they shared their stories and experiences of the deadly illness.Â
The princess’ personal message to the nation is accompanied by a stunning three-minute long video showing her and William in Norfolk with their three childrenÂ
The new video of the princess and her family – an unprecedented piece of deeply personal footage – was filmed in Norfolk by one of their favourite film-makers, Will Warr
Catherine and William lark around on the beach in a delightful scene from the videoÂ
Louis brings his face to the camera as George and Catherine are seen in the backgroundÂ
Princess Charlotte was also seen several times during the footageÂ
The setting of the footage is deeply symbolic, drawing on the strength Catherine has drawn from her family and loved ones and from spending time on the things which bring her joy
 One person wrote on X: ‘As a breast cancer survivor, this really got to me. Chemo is so tough. So honest and so much vulnerability. I wish her health, love, and light.’
While another added: ‘Princess, I am so grateful that your treatment part is over!! I am praying for the next phase of recovery for you! I’m two years out from my own treatment’s end and am with you. Thank you for being such a light to the world in the midst of your own pain.’
A third said: ‘As a cancer survivor myself, I can say you are 100% correct. Live each day and take the blessing of your loved ones to heart. Praying for all those suffering from cancer and praying for strength for their loved ones.’
The three-minute long video was filmed in Norfolk last month and is accompanied by a backdrop of stunning nature as the family frolic through the woods, lay on hay bails and climb log piles.
William and Catherine are also seen laying entwined on a blanket, hugging their children – and kissing.Â
Cancer charities were also quick to welcome the news and praise the princess’ openness.
A spokesperson for Macmillan Cancer Support said: ‘We’re grateful to The Princess for being so open about her experience as this will no doubt give hope to many others going through similar experiences, and encourage more open conversations about the impact cancer can have on people’s lives.
‘Everyone’s experience with cancer is different, and the period after treatment ends can be very difficult. It’s so important that people are allowed the space and time to return to work in the way that suits them. ‘
Dame Laura Lee, CEO of Maggie’s, added: ‘It will benefit to many people living with cancer to see her come through this treatment and share this video…..as the Princess said, the cancer journey is complex and a lot of people can find it tough when they end their cancer treatment and return to work. Your family, friends and work colleagues might think you are back to normal, but the person who has just been through it all can stull feel vulnerable and in need of a lot of support. ‘
King Charles and his wife Queen Camilla are understood to have welcomed today’s announcement as ‘wonderful news’ and will continue to offer all love, thoughts and support to Kate on her continued path to full recovery.
While Kate’s message to the nation was filled with hope and celebration, she warned that ‘doing what I can to stay cancer free is now my focus’ and admitted the last nine months have been a ‘scary and unpredictable’ time for her family.
The footage is one of the intimate insights into family life that Catherine and William have provided so farÂ
The Cambridge children play in the sea during the video released todayÂ
Kate pictured behind the wheel as she reads her statement as a voiceoverÂ
Princess Charlotte hugs their parents as they look out over a beach in NorfolkÂ
Catherine spoke of her ‘relief’ at her programme of chemo finally coming to an endÂ
The Cambridge children run through the woods as William walks alongside them bouncing a tennis ball on a cricket batÂ
Delightful scenes show the family enjoying each other’s company in natureÂ
Palace source emphasised that while the princess is looking forward to undertaking a ‘handful’ of public engagements over the coming months, her focus is on being ‘cancer free’ and her journey to full recovery ‘is long’.
Her programme of engagements will be ‘light’ but is likely, as previously revealed by the Daily Mail, to including Remembrance Sunday at the Cenotaph and other events around it.
Reacting to the footage, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer wrote on social media: ‘Pleased to hear the Princess of Wales has finished chemotherapy.
‘On behalf of the entire country, I send her my very best wishes for a full recovery.’
Online people continued to react to Kate’s video, by offering their own first-hand experience of their loved ones having cancer.Â
One person wrote: ‘Many of us have walked the same path with our loved ones, knowing that the journey is difficult. But in those fumbling steps is the best part of our love for each other.’
Another said: ‘As a nurse who worked in oncology and one who had family affected by cancer I know how difficult this road is.’
One excitedly told the Princess of Wales: ‘My husband Mike has two more cycles and he will be done with his chemo. Prayers for all those going through this.’
Kensington Palace has not confirmed whether the princess – seen with William – expects to return to a full programme of duties next year. It is understood that decisions about 2025 will be taken in line with medical advice
Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis are featured regularly in the new videoÂ
The Cambridges and their three children clamber over tree trunks near their Norfolk homeÂ
Prince Louis appeared his usual cheeky self during the charming family videoÂ
Catherine appeared happy and relaxed in the video, which will delight her millions of supportersÂ
The family are also seen running through a field of recently cut strawÂ
The princess was first admitted to hospital in January for what has only been described as planned abdominal surgery.
It was later discovered by doctors that cancer had been present and she embarked on her treatment in late February.
Kensington Palace has not confirmed whether the princess expects to return to a full programme of duties next year. It is understood that decisions about 2025 will be taken in line with medical advice.
However sources told the Mail tonight that the Princess hopes to do a small number of engagements shining a light on some of the causes, issues and charities that are closest to her heart over the coming months.
They are only likely to be announced last minute as they will depend as and when Her Royal Highness feels able to carry them out, with sources stressing repeatedly that every ‘cancer journey is different’.
It is understood that she is also working with staff on plans for her annual carol concert in December.
The new video of the princess and her family – an unprecedented piece of deeply personal footage – was filmed in Norfolk by one of their favourite film-makers, Will Warr.
The setting of the footage is deeply symbolic, drawing on the strength Catherine has drawn from her family and loved ones and from spending time on the things which bring her joy, particularly the sanctuary she has found in the natural world.
It also features her parents, Michael and Carole Middleton, who have been an unwavering source of support.