Prince William has posted a touching tribute on social media to mark the birthday of his wife, Kate, Princess of Wales, after what has been a particularly difficult year for her. The royal couple are celebrating Kate’s 43rd birthday at their home in Windsor, surrounded by their family, following a challenging 12 months in which the princess underwent abdominal surgery, was diagnosed with cancer, and successfully completed chemotherapy.
++ Why are anti-Elon Musk Tesla protests emerging in the UK?
Alongside a black-and-white image of Kate, which was shared on Instagram, William wrote: “To the most incredible wife and mother. The strength you’ve shown over the last year has been remarkable. George, Charlotte, Louis, and I are so proud of you. Happy Birthday, Catherine. We love you. W.” The image, taken by photographer Matt Porteous last summer, shows Kate smiling and relaxed, dressed casually with a gingham scarf around her neck, her hands in the pockets of her jeans.
Earlier in the day, the official social media account for the monarchy also shared a birthday message for Kate: “Happy Birthday to The Princess of Wales!” accompanied by a birthday cake emoji. This post included a photo of Kate smiling in a green coat as she accepted bouquets of flowers from well-wishers after attending church in Sandringham on Christmas Day.
Fans of the royal family quickly took to social media to praise Prince William for his unusually emotional message to Kate. One user commented, “This is everything,” while another wrote, “Such beautiful words from HRH Prince William – lovely to see!” Others shared their affection, with comments like, “Happy birthday our princess, Catherine,” and “The most wonderful birthday message from our Prince to his Princess.”
Kate will be spending her birthday with William and their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, in Windsor. It has been a difficult year for the royal family, following both Kate and the King’s cancer diagnoses. William has described 2024 as “brutal” for the family. Next week marks one year since Kate underwent her abdominal surgery, and shortly after, she was diagnosed with cancer and began chemotherapy. In March, Kate shared an emotional video message confirming her cancer diagnosis and the commencement of her preventative chemotherapy treatment.
++ Climber plummets 130ft in terrifying Scots mountain fall
In the wake of her health journey, Kate expressed that the most important part was reassuring her children and helping them understand the situation. Later in the year, she announced that she had completed her treatment and was focusing on staying cancer-free. Kate resumed some public duties, including hosting her annual ‘Together at Christmas’ Carol Service, following her recovery.
