Catherine, Princess of Wales opens up about ‘really difficult’ cancer recovery

Catherine, Princess of Wales, made a heartfelt return to public life Wednesday as she visited Colchester Hospital’s Wellbeing Garden in Essex. It marked her first appearance since unexpectedly withdrawing from Royal Ascot two weeks ago.

During her visit, the Princess opened up about the emotional challenges that follow chemotherapy, describing it as “a really difficult” period. Speaking to patients at the hospital’s Cancer Wellbeing Centre, she shared a candid reflection on life after cancer 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,’” she said. “But actually the phase afterwards is really difficult. 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.”

Kate, 43, revealed her cancer diagnosis in March. At the time, she also shared that she had started chemotherapy. The announcement came after months away from public life and rare summer appearances. By September, she announced she had completed her treatment and was working to stay cancer free.

This week’s hospital visit highlighted her ongoing commitment to raising awareness about cancer recovery and mental health. Kensington Palace said the visit aimed “to celebrate the incredible healing power of nature.”

The princess toured the garden and met with patients and staff, learning how green spaces in hospitals promote better health outcomes. According to the NHS, exposure to nature can reduce stress, improve mood, and aid physical recovery. Kate has echoed this belief publicly.

“Over the past year, nature has been my sanctuary,” she said in May during Mental Health Awareness Week, through a video posted to X (formerly Twitter).

At Colchester, Kate planted one of 50 “Catherine’s Rose” plants donated to the hospital. The Royal Horticultural Society named the flower in her honor. Proceeds from commercial sales will benefit The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, which supports cancer patients and research.

Kate became a joint patron of The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust earlier this year. The specialist hospital in west London played a key role in her treatment. The new funds will help launch a program focused on improving life for cancer survivors.

The royal has been gradually returning to public life. Before stepping back from Royal Ascot, she attended major royal events including the Trooping the Colour parade and the Order of the Garter service. Last week, she and Prince William hosted Melinda French Gates at Windsor Castle, reportedly to discuss shared philanthropic interests.

Her team continues to balance royal engagements with her personal recovery. Kensington Palace said the princess remains focused on both her health and her public responsibilities.

Medical experts say recovery after chemotherapy is often overlooked. Dr. Anna Taylor, an oncology specialist at University College London Hospitals, explained: “When treatment ends, many patients feel lost. They’re expected to return to life as usual, but their energy, mood, and sense of normalcy can take much longer to heal.”

Kate’s openness about this transition offers hope and recognition for others going through the same. Her ongoing message  that healing is not linear and that nature can be powerful medicine  continues to resonate with many.

As she planted Catherine’s Roses and met with cancer patients on Wednesday, the Princess of Wales reminded the public that resilience also means acknowledging vulnerability.

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