Kate Middleton has made her first public appearance since she was diagnosed with cancer as part of the Trooping the Colour parade.
The Princess of Wales and her three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, were cheered on by crowds as they left Buckingham Palace in a carriage procession.
Her appearance had been in doubt after she missed the final Trooping rehearsal last weekend, but she confirmed in a statement yesterday (Friday, June 15) that she would attend.
She was surrounded by other members of the family, with her husband the Prince of Wales, Colonel of the Welsh Guards, on horseback, as were the Princess Royal, Colonel Blues and Royals, and the Duke of Edinburgh, Colonel Scots Guards.
The King also rode in a carriage with the Queen, a departure from last year because of his illness, and he will inspect the officers and guardsmen on Horse Guards Parade in Whitehall from the coach rather than from a horse.
In March, Kate announced that she had been diagnosed with cancer sharing in an emotional video message: “I am well and getting stronger every day.”
She added that at the time she had begun a course of “preventative chemotherapy” late in February but is said to have a positive mindset for her recovery and is in good spirits.
Princess of Wales confirms attendance at Trooping for Colour
Kate shared in her statement on Friday that she was making “good progress” with her treatment, but candidly said she has “good days and bad days”.
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She added: "I’m looking forward to attending The King’s Birthday Parade this weekend with my family and hope to join a few public engagements over the summer, but equally knowing I am not out of the woods yet. I am learning how to be patient, especially with uncertainty.
"Taking each day as it comes, listening to my body, and allowing myself to take this much needed time to heal.
"Thank you so much for your continued understanding, and to all of you who have so bravely shared your stories with me. C."
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