During a recent visit to Colchester Hospital’s Wellbeing Centre in Essex, the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, shared a candid and heartfelt update on her cancer recovery journey. Dressed in a brown blazer and trousers, she described the process as a “rollercoaster,” emphasizing the emotional and physical challenges faced by patients and their families.
Kate, who publicly disclosed her cancer diagnosis in March last year, praised the centre’s holistic approach. The support offered goes beyond medical treatment to include counselling, dietary advice, and creative activities like singing and gardening. She highlighted the importance of such comprehensive care for patients and their carers.
Speaking to patients, volunteers, and staff, the princess reflected on the often overlooked phase following treatment. “You put on a sort of brave face, stoicism through treatment, treatment’s done, then it’s like ‘I can crack on, get back to normal,’ but actually the phase afterwards is really difficult,” she said. She emphasized that recovery is not a straightforward path but rather a “zig-zag” or rollercoaster ride with ups and downs that require guidance and support.
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Kate shared how life transforms both for those diagnosed and their families, noting that the impact of cancer is profound and sometimes unrecognized, especially during the first experience. “You have to find your new normal and that takes time,” she added.
Following her visit, the princess planted coral-pink Catherine’s Rose plants in the hospital’s Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Wellbeing Garden, a space designed to promote mental, physical, and spiritual health. The RHS named the rose after Kate to honor her advocacy for the benefits of spending time outdoors on wellbeing.
Choosing to plant the roses with her bare hands alongside award-winning garden designer Adam Frost, Kate’s gesture symbolizes hope and healing. Proceeds from the sale of Catherine’s Rose will support The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity’s efforts to train clinical teams nationwide in providing intensive support to cancer patients.
Earlier this year, Kate revealed she is in remission after treatment at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London. Despite the challenges of balancing her health and public duties—missing Royal Ascot for a second consecutive year—her visit and words highlight the ongoing journey and resilience required to live well during and after cancer.