Cancer-stricken British Crown Princess makes first public appearance... Attends King Charles III's birthday event

"Progress in Cancer Treatment... Thank You for the Encouraging Messages"

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, who is battling cancer, is expected to attend the official birthday celebration of the King this weekend as her condition improves. This will be her first public appearance since announcing her illness in March.

According to British media including BBC and The Guardian on the 14th (local time), the Duchess of Cambridge stated on her official Instagram account regarding her cancer treatment, "I am making significant progress."

Kate Middleton, Crown Princess
Photo by AP Yonhap News

She also said, "I am looking forward to attending the King's birthday parade with my family this weekend."

This refers to her attendance at the Trooping the Colour ceremony celebrating King Charles III's birthday on the 15th. It will be her first official public appearance since revealing her cancer battle via a video message in March.

The Duchess of Cambridge had not carried out public duties since undergoing abdominal surgery and hospitalization in January. Rumors about her serious condition and marital discord circulated, prompting her to personally disclose her illness in March.

Regarding her current health, she said there has been progress in treatment but "I am not out of the woods yet. Anyone undergoing chemotherapy knows there are good days and bad days."

She added that treatment is ongoing and will continue for several more months. "On bad days, I have no energy and feel tired, and I have to accept that my body needs rest. But on good days, I want to make the most of that energy. When I feel well enough, I am happy to participate in school life and spend time on activities that give me energy and confidence," she said.

Expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support from all walks of life since revealing her cancer diagnosis, the Duchess said, "I have been overwhelmed by the kind messages of support and encouragement over the past two months. This has made a huge difference to William and me and has helped during the tougher times. I am grateful for the ongoing understanding and also thank everyone who has shared their own experiences."

The Duchess of Cambridge is expected to gradually resume public duties starting with this Trooping the Colour ceremony. Kensington Palace stated that she has begun some work, such as attending charity-related meetings from home, and is expected to attend some events over the summer. However, this does not mean a full return to public duties, and plans may change, the Palace added.

King Charles III expressed through a Buckingham Palace spokesperson that he is pleased Catherine will attend the Trooping the Colour and is "looking forward to all the events of the day."

Prince William said through a Kensington Palace spokesperson, "I am pleased that the Duchess has started to engage in important work and projects. I will continue to focus on supporting my wife and children while carrying out public duties."

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said, "The whole country is wishing the Duchess a full recovery and supporting her. This will especially give hope and inspiration to cancer patients and their families."