How Princess Catherine and Prince William Told Their Children About Her Cancer Diagnosis

When Princess Catherine was diagnosed with cancer in 2024, she and Prince William faced one of the most difficult conversations of their lives. As public figures under constant scrutiny, they chose a calm and honest approach to explain the situation to their three young children.

Princess Catherine and Prince William may live in the public eye, but their greatest focus remains their family. When Catherine was diagnosed with cancer in 2024, their priority was clear.

They needed to help their three children understand what was happening while keeping life as steady as possible.

A Calm and Honest Conversation

In an excerpt from Russell Myers’s new book, "William and Catherine: The Monarchy's New Era: The Inside Story," Myers details how the couple handled the difficult news. According to the book, William and Catherine spoke to Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7, “very calmly” about the diagnosis.

Rather than avoid the subject, they explained directly what was happening and how long their mother would need to be away. They reassured the children that life would remain normal. They also told them that once Catherine returned home, she would still need space and time to rest.

Their approach centered on honesty and stability during a period of uncertainty.

Staying Connected During Treatment

Catherine underwent abdominal surgery in January 2024. At first, it was believed to be noncancerous. Two months later, it was publicly announced that a biopsy had revealed cancer, and she would need chemotherapy.

While she was in the hospital receiving treatment, Catherine stayed connected with her children through video calls. She asked about their school days and even checked whether “Papa” was cooking for them while she was away.

During that time, Prince William took on additional responsibilities at home. He handled school drop-offs and daily routines. Catherine’s parents and siblings visited regularly to show their support. The couple also arranged playdates for the children and organized weekends away with their grandparents, Michael and Carole Middleton, to provide distraction and comfort.

Leaning on Family During a Difficult Time

The emotional toll of the diagnosis was significant. A close friend of William’s described the impact to Myers.

“[It] was like being hit by a bus — sudden, brutal and completely disorienting,” the friend said. “One moment life was normal, and the next, everything changed. He worships [Kate], truly. She’s his world, and when the diagnosis came, it was as if the ground beneath him vanished.”

“He talked about the rug being pulled, but it was more than that, it was heartbreak, fear and helplessness all at once,” he concluded.

Despite the emotional strain, Catherine’s focus remained on her children. Her determination to recover was rooted in her role as a mother. At the same time, George, Charlotte, and Louis brought a sense of calm to William during what was described as a deeply troubling period.

Recovery and Return to Public Life

Catherine completed chemotherapy in September 2024. She entered remission in early 2025. Since then, she has gradually returned to public duties, appearing at official events alongside Prince William.

Throughout the ordeal, the couple worked to protect their children from unnecessary fear while maintaining transparency at home. Their approach reflected a balance between public responsibility and private devotion.

Even amid global attention, their most important role remained unchanged. They were parents first.