Kate Middleton Opens Up About the Challenges of Finding a ‘New Normal’ After Cancer Treatment

Kate Middleton spoke about the challenges of finding a “new normal” after completing cancer treatment during a public appearance at a hospital garden in Colchester, England, on Wednesday, People reports. 

Middleton completed her chemotherapy treatments last fall and revealed that her cancer was in remission earlier this year. Speaking at a well-being garden for patients and staff at Colchester Hospital, the Princess of Wales said, “You put on a sort of brave face, stoicism through treatment,” in anticipation of being able to get on with life once it’s over.

“But actually,” she said, “the phase afterwards is really difficult.”

Middleton continued, “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. And actually, someone to help talk you through that, show you and guide you through that sort of phase that comes after treatment, I think is really valuable.”

She went on to say that finding a “new normal… takes time.” She described the process as “a rollercoaster, it’s not smooth, like you expect it to be. But the reality is you go through hard times.” 

Middleton announced that she had been diagnosed with cancer in late March 2024, several months after being sent to the hospital for abdominal surgery. Prior to this announcement, however, Middleton spent several weeks out of the public eye, leading to somewhat rampant speculation about her whereabouts and health. 

While undergoing treatment last year, Middleton made a handful of public appearances, including a birthday parade for King Charles, as well as the Wimbledon Final. She’s resumed her public duties slowly, making a handful of appearances last month, though also deciding not to attend the Royal Ascot horse racing event.