Catherine, Princess of Wales, has spoken candidly about the emotional and psychological challenges of recovering from cancer, saying the period after treatment can be more difficult than many people realise.
During a visit to the Wellbeing Garden at Colchester Hospital, the Princess said completing chemotherapy does not mark an immediate return to normal life.
“You put on a sort of brave face, stoicism through treatment,” Kate said. “Treatment’s done, then it’s like, ‘I can crack on, get back to normal,’ but actually, the phase afterwards is really, really difficult.”
Although the Princess previously announced she was cancer-free after completing preventative chemotherapy, she said the transition back to everyday life is often a gradual and demanding process.
She explained that many patients experience a sense of uncertainty once active treatment ends, as they are no longer receiving regular clinical care but may still be unable to resume their previous routines.
“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,” she said.
Describing recovery as a “roller coaster,” Kate said emotional healing often takes longer than physical recovery and requires patience, support and learning to listen to one’s body.
The Princess has gradually resumed public engagements in recent months. Royal aides have said she is taking a measured approach to balancing official duties with her long-term health and well-being.