Today, as Princess Kate celebrates her 43rd birthday, the palace has released a new photo of the Duchess along with a heartfelt message from Prince William.
Captured by renowned photographer Matt Porteous in Windsor last summer, this never-before-seen image coincides with William’s tribute to his wife.
William expressed his admiration, sharing the photo and a sweet mesage over at X, reports Daily Express UK.
In the post, he wrote: “To the most incredible wife and mother. The strength you’ve shown over the last year has been remarkable. George, Charlotte, Louis, and I are so proud of you. Happy Birthday, Catherine. We love you. W.”
This break from tradition, featuring both a personal message from Prince William and the birthday image, comes after what sources describe as Kate’s “brutal” battle with cancer treatment.
Early this morning, well-wishes were sent from King Charles and Queen Camilla who shared an elegant photograph of Kate taken during Christmas celebrations.
Embracing modernity, the royals have recently taken control of their narrative through direct updates on social media.
Kate opened up about her cancer journey, first announcing her diagnosis in a moving video, and subsequently informing the public of her completed chemotherapy in a touching home-video montage.
In reciprocation to the personal touch for birthdays, Kate sent out endearing regards on William’s birthday, writing: “Happy birthday Papa, we all love you so much! Cx.”
Close friends and family will gather today to celebrate Kate’s 43rd birthday in what is expected to be an intimate affair.
After enduring a “dreadful” year of cancer treatment, Kate will have a low-key birthday celebration at home with William and their three children.
The day’s plans include spending time with her closest friends and later, an intimate dinner with William, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
Last year, just after her 42nd birthday, Kate underwent “planned abdominal surgery” and spent two weeks recovering at the London Clinic before continuing her recovery at home.
Despite the initial surgery, doctors later found that cancer was present, prompting Kate to begin preventative chemotherapy at the end of February.
In September, she completed her treatment and announced plans to gradually return to royal engagements. The diagnosis came shortly after Charles disclosed his own battle with cancer, casting a shadow over the family.
During a visit to Cape Town, South Africa, in November, William reflected on the past year, saying: “It’s been dreadful. It’s probably been the hardest year in my life.”
He added: “So, trying to get through everything else and keep everything on track has been really difficult.”
He further expressed: “I’m so proud of my wife, I’m proud of my father, for handling the things that they have done. But from a personal family point of view, it’s been brutal.”
