Although Kate Middleton is in remission following her cancer battle, one royal expert believes the journey has left its mark on the Princess of Wales.
Last year the 43-year-old revealed she was undergoing chemotherapy, and things are going well for her a year later.
After stating that she is now in remission, there is reason for Kate and husband Prince William, along with their three children, to be positive about her health.
Speaking to The Sun’s Royal Exclusive show, Vanity Fair’s royal correspondent Katie Nicholl spoke about the toll the treatment had on Kate.
“She did a lot of running up and down the country, juggling that with the three children doing the overseas tours,” said Nicholl.
“People would be quite surprised to learn just how hands on William and Catherine are as parents.
“And I think this is just, well, it’s a wake up call, isn’t it? This is a real reality check for her.
“And so I think it’s a case of what Kensington Palace are describing as a very gradual return to work that’s very much on her terms.
“And I think that’s how it should be.”
Kate thanks staff for her care
Earlier in January, Kate visited the Royal Marsden Hospital where she thanked staff for the care she received.
With her chemotherapy now over, she wanted to show the staff her gratitude. She also took time to speak to other patients to find out details about their wellbeing, their trials and tribulations, as well as their families.
“I think it was deeply significant that she chose going to the place where we now know she was treated for her own cancer, to mark that first official solo engagement, the first in over a year,” Katie told Bronte Coy about her visit.
“So it was poignant. It was obviously important.
“And I think what we’re seeing her do is use that unique spotlight that she has to put it on a really important cause.
“Cancer will affect one in two of us. And I think the royals have done great work in a very short space of time in terms of breaking down the stigma that I think is still attached to this disease.”