After months of courageously managing her diagnosis and undergoing preventative chemotherapy, the Princess of Wales has stepped forward once again—this time, offering an honest reflection on what happens after treatment ends.

Kate Middleton, who announced her cancer diagnosis in March 2024, confirmed her chemotherapy was complete by September of that year. Since then, she’s gradually returned to public life, making appearances at hospitals and royal engagements. But her latest comments, shared during a visit to Colchester Hospital’s wellbeing garden on July 2, show that the recovery journey is far from linear.

“Post-Treatment Is Really, Really Difficult”

Speaking candidly to patients and caregivers, Kate described the post-treatment phase as unexpectedly tough: “You put on a sort of brave face, stoicism through treatment,” she said. “Treatment’s done, then it’s like, ‘I can crack on, get back to normal,’ but actually, the phase afterwards is really, really difficult.”

In a moment of personal vulnerability, the mother of three admitted that she hasn’t quite returned to her pre-diagnosis rhythm at home. “You’re not necessarily under the clinical team any longer, but you’re not able to function normally at home as you perhaps once used to.”

Finding a “New Normal”

Kate’s reflections strike a chord with many cancer survivors who say the end of treatment doesn’t mean the end of the journey. She emphasized the importance of having guidance and emotional support in navigating this transition: “Someone to help talk you through that, show you and guide you… is really valuable.”

She described the experience of remission as a rollercoaster. “You have to find your new normal, and that takes time,” she said. “It’s not smooth like you expect it to be. But the reality is—you go through hard times.”

New Royal Duties Amid Healing

While continuing to focus on her health, the Princess has also embraced new responsibilities. In a historic update, Buckingham Palace announced that both she and Prince William have been granted the authority to issue royal warrants—an honor last held by a Princess of Wales over a century ago.

Royal warrants are badges of prestige, allowing certain businesses to display a seal that signifies they supply goods or services to the royal household. This move signals trust in the couple’s growing role in supporting British enterprise.

A spokesperson for the couple, Ian Patrick, remarked: “Their Royal Highnesses are delighted to be able to recognise and celebrate British industry, creativity and skills through the granting of Warrants.”

An Ongoing Journey

Princess Kate’s openness about the emotional realities of cancer recovery is a reminder that resilience isn’t about looking flawless—it’s about moving forward while being honest about the struggle. Her reflections offer a rare, personal glimpse behind the polished veneer of royal life and highlight the very human side of a public figure navigating both duty and healing.