LONDON — The Princess of Wales decided to skip attending the Royal Ascot on Wednesday to focus on maintaining the balance between her official engagements and her ongoing recovery from cancer. The princess, known widely as Kate and the wife of Prince William, has been easing back into her public duties since last fall. That was when she made an announcement stating she had completed her chemotherapy treatment but acknowledged that the journey to full recovery would be extended and that her approach would be to “take each day as it comes.”
The Royal Ascot, a well-known event consisting of a five-day series of horse races, marks a highlight in Britain’s summer social calendar. Members of the royal family traditionally make appearances at these events, and there was anticipation from racegoers to catch a glimpse of Kate on Wednesday. However, Prince William took on his responsibilities of presenting race prizes without her presence.
Back in September, at age 42, Kate shared that she had successfully finished her treatment after first revealing her undisclosed cancer diagnosis six months prior. This announcement closely followed news from Buckingham Palace, stating that King Charles III was also undergoing cancer treatment. Despite their health challenges, both Kate and King Charles have been gradually resuming their public roles. The royal family has had to navigate a packed schedule of public appearances amid these personal health battles.