Catherine, Princess of Wales made her first public appearance of the year at Trooping the Colour after sharing her shocking cancer diagnosis in March.
Kate, looking like the picture of health, arrived in an upcycled Jenny Packham dress with matching fascinator and pearl earrings.
The Princess of Wales arrived at Buckingham Palace with her husband Prince William and darling children George, 10; Charlotte, 9; and Louis, 6, in tow.
Despite the rainy weather, heart-warming smiles and laughter filled the Glass Coach as the royal family rode down the Mall during the parade.
And the public’s joy at seeing their beloved princess back with the royal family amid her cancer treatment was evident. Thousands of revellers lined the streets, cheering at the official celebrations for King Charles’ birthday.
It was good fortune all around, as even the wind and the rain couldn’t stop the RAF (Royal Air Force) flypast. Thirty aircraft strong, the Red Arrows dazzled the crowds and the Royal Family, including the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, who came out on the balcony to enjoy the final event of the day’s celebrations.
A RETURN TO NORMALCY
King Charles was especially grateful this year. A royal insider tells Woman’s Day that he was “in absolute awe” of brave Kate, who has spent the past six months undergoing treatment away from the spotlight.
“Her appearance was so important to the family and the public – it marked a return to normalcy that people need right now,” the source says.
“Everyone wanted to fuss over Kate, but Charles was protective of her, not wanting her to feel stressed out.”
‘GOOD AND BAD DAYS’ FOR THE PRINCESS
Ahead of the annual military parade held to celebrate the King’s official birthday, Kate shared – much to everyone’s delight – that she would be joining in the festivities.
She also shared a personal health update on Instagram, saying:
“I am making good progress, but as anyone going through chemotherapy will know, there are good days and bad days. On those bad days you feel weak, tired and you have to give in to your body resting. But on the good days, when you feel stronger, you want to make the most of feeling well.
“My treatment is ongoing and will be for a few more months. On the days I feel well enough, it is a joy to engage with school life, spend personal time on the things that give me energy and positivity, as well as starting to do a little work from home.
“I’m looking forward to attending The King’s Birthday Parade this weekend with my family and hope to join a few public engagements over the summer, but equally knowing I am not out of the woods yet.
“I am learning how to be patient, especially with uncertainty. Taking each day as it comes, listening to my body, and allowing myself to take this much needed time to heal.
“Thank you so much for your continued understanding, and to all of you who have so bravely shared your stories with me. C”
KING CHARLES AND KATE’S CLOSE BOND
This year’s Trooping the Colour, where upwards of 8,000 spectators gathered to join in the celebration, marks the second for Charles as king.
However, he too is facing health challenges. A statement from Buckingham Palace on 6 February 2024 confirmed King Charles III had been diagnosed with cancer.
Despite the hardships, it seems King Charles and Kate are now closer than ever. They’ve always shared a bond, but now the two have a newfound respect and admiration for one another.
