Kate's Surprise Visit to Royal Marsden
George, Charlotte, and Louis went back to school on January 8th, so I did wonder if we’d see an engagement from Kate relatively soon, but I was nonetheless surprised (and delighted) by her surprise appearance today! The Princess of Wales visited the Royal Marsden Cancer Centre in Chelsea this morning, revealing it was at the Royal Marsden that she herself underwent her cancer treatment. The Princess was there to thank doctors and staff and sit with patients as she was announced joint-patron with Prince William.
Kate Mansey reported that Kate “spoke of the novelty of coming through the main entrance rather than ‘so many quiet visits’ via a side door.” All reports confirm what, I think, we all can feel, which is that this was a very emotional visit for Kate.
She has certainly come a long way. A year ago, Kate was just two days out from the abdominal surgery that would change her life. We already know that Kate had not been well for some time leading up to the surgery, and although the Palace said at the time it was not believed to be cancer, I think (and hope) her doctors had an inkling of what they might find, and had warned Kate. We were all waiting—obliviously—for Kate to make her first public engagement of 2024 and kick off a busy year of royal watching. What a different year it turned out to be.
She has come through a lot, but how wonderful to see her today—a year later—finally making that first, crisp appearance of the New Year. Like King Charles, she chose to visit a cancer center, and not just any cancer-related event, she shared with the public a little more about her own journey by revealing the Royal Marsden was where she herself was treated.
Kate recycled her beautiful Kiltane polo neck sweater and Edeline Lee “plait” skirt, both of which she wore on an engagement in 2023. I think the coat is the BLAZÉ MILANO jacket Kate has worn to Crate Kirk two times, but we have only seen from the car. The assumption was it was a blazer, but it is now revealed to be a full-length coat. That’s my working theory in a rush.
I know it’s not business as usual and that Kate is not back to normal, but it certainly feels good to see her out on a cold January day to kick of 2025. This ensemble is gorgeous on her. I hope she goes from strength to strength!
This must have taken a lot of courage on her part - she’s not that far out from treatment. Going back to the cancer center can be very emotional. As a survivor this really made me smile.
Indeed a lovely surprise! I to am also a cancer survivor myself! From that perspective, ! I think her timing is similar to my own re her gradual return for a variety of reasons. I think one tends to “look fine” but not “feel fine” and I can confirm the mental battle after this diagnosis and treatment is a big one. Anyway, she looks great, love the color, and just overall good for her!!!