THE Princess of Wales’s “spirit of optimism” has been praised by the Archbishop of Canterbury, after she announced that she has cancer.
In a video message posted on Friday evening, Princess Catherine said: “In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and on the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. The surgery was successful. However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present. My medical team due to this fact advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I’m now within the early stages of that treatment.”
She said that the news had come as “an enormous shock”, and it had taken time for her and the Prince of Wales to elucidate the situation to their children “in a way that is suitable for them, and to reassure them that I’m going to be OK.
“As I even have said to them: I’m well and getting stronger daily by specializing in the things that can help me heal; in my mind, body, and spirits.”
She requested that she and her family be given “a while, space, and privacy while I complete my treatment”.
A press release from Buckingham Palace said that the King, who was himself diagnosed with cancer last month (News, 9 February), was “so pleased with Catherine for her courage in speaking as she did”, and that he remained within the “closest contact together with his beloved daughter-in-law”.
Responding to the news, Archbishop Welby wrote on social media: “My prayers are with the Princess of Wales, the Prince of Wales, and their children at this tremendously difficult time. I join the entire country, and the world, in praying for her full recovery.
“I take this chance to praise her for her spirit of optimism within the face of such difficult news, and am pleased to listen to that she is feeling stronger daily. Her bravery in sharing in this manner and her continued commitment to supporting others speaks to her compassion and sense of service.
“Please join with me in praying for the Royal Family as they cope with this private matter, and I might urge people to respect their privacy presently.”
The Archbishop of York invited people to affix him in praying for a speedy recovery for the Princess. “Cancer affects so many families. Today it affects the Royal Family. We send them our love and good wishes and the reassurance of the prayers of the Church.”
The Church of England has published a prayer for the Princess’s continued recovery.
The Archbishop of Westminster, Cardinal Vincent Nichols, wrote: “I salute the courage of the Princess of Wales in speaking so openly about her personal health. Not only does she give encouragement to all who carry the burden of sick health, but she also speaks so movingly of the importance of her family life.”
The Bishop of Taunton, the Rt Revd Ruth Worsley, was amongst bishops who expressed support for the Princess of Wales. “Across the parishes, schools, and communities of the diocese we hold the Princess of Wales and her family in our prayers,” she wrote on social media. “May she know the love and compassion of God, his presence and peace.”
