Kate Middleton endured a turbulent 2024 that had a significant domino effect on the rest of the British Royal Family. The Princess of Wales — who will one day reign as queen of the United Kingdom — fought cancer for much of the year, and it wasn’t long ago when she was cleared to return to royal duties.

As arguably the most beloved member of the UK’s ruling family, Kate has long been used to the glare of the public spotlight — domestically as well as abroad, such is the range of admiration for her. As such, an Instagram post from Kate’s husband, Prince William, has sparked a number of reactions as the general public wonders if 2025 will be a better year for the royals than 2024.

In his celebratory Instagram post to honor Kate’s birthday last week, William remarked on the strength that the Princess of Wales has demonstrated throughout her cancer treatment — making it clear that she has entered a new phase in her life following the challenges of 2024.

“The strength you’ve shown over the last year has been remarkable. George, Charlotte, Louis and I are so proud of you,” William wrote as the caption to a black-and-white photograph of his wife.

The challenges inherent to Kate’s cancer fight took a toll on the entire ruling family — including King Charles III, who also spent much of 2024 battling cancer. The king could not step aside as easily from his public responsibilities, and his health has become one of the top news stories to watch in 2025 — especially as his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, was so long-lived as the UK’s monarch. But waiting in the wings are Kate and William, the Prince of Wales, who know the seats of power will be theirs in time.