Princess of Wales Makes First Public Appearance in Over a Month Amid Cancer Treatment
The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, was recently spotted attending a church service in Scotland, marking her first public appearance in over a month. The sighting occurred at Crathie Kirk on the Balmoral Estate, where Kate was joined by her husband, Prince William, and their eldest son, Prince George.
Photos captured by the Daily Mail UK show the royal family attending the service over the weekend, along with King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince Edward, Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, and their son, James Wessex. This outing marks a significant moment for Kate, as it is the furthest she has traveled since confirming her cancer diagnosis.
Kate’s last public appearance was at this year’s Wimbledon final, where she began her slow return to public life amidst ongoing treatment. The trip to Balmoral is a cherished tradition for the royals, who retreat to the Scottish estate each summer for a well-deserved break. Despite her health challenges, Kate was determined to join her family in the Scottish Highlands, a trip some had wondered if she would make this year.
Since announcing her diagnosis, Kate has divided her time between the Wales’ Windsor home, Adelaide Cottage, and their Norfolk base, Anmer Hall. In June, she shared with the public that she was “not out of the woods yet” and would need to continue her treatment for “a few more months.”
The royal family’s summer break at Balmoral is a time for rest and rejuvenation, with long walks, fishing, and cycling through the picturesque grounds. A source previously told People that this time away from the public eye would be especially beneficial for Kate. “She won’t have to be on centre stage. Being with her family and just being herself will give her energy. There will be plenty of time to focus on her recovery.”
Last week, a source revealed to the Daily Mail’s royal editor, Rebecca English, that it has been a “rough, rough time” for Kate and William, describing this year as “the toughest of their lives together.” The source added, “I don’t think people realize how much she has gone through behind the scenes and for how long, far longer than anyone actually appreciates. She’s an incredibly strong woman, but she really has been through the wars. Her treatment and recovery is still a priority and will be ongoing for some time to come.”
In June, Kensington Palace released a statement from the Princess of Wales, confirming that she would begin attending public engagements again on days when she feels able. Kate’s recent appearance at Balmoral is a hopeful sign of her resilience and determination as she continues her journey toward recovery.