Our Dear Kate

With true elegance and grace, Kate Middleton shared with the world that she was undergoing treatment for cancer. During her announcement, she made a plea for people to respect their privacy as they face what is ahead. She and William are trying to help their children understand her sickness. Kate prepared for this announcement for two weeks, and said it was to fall when the children were on spring break. That way they wouldn't have to answer questions from the other children at school. Kate and William are described as fantastic parents. They are doing exactly what any parents of young children would do. The only difference is they are sharing the news with the world.   

Kate is someone that I would describe as a "strong" woman. In the next few weeks/months, I think she will become even stronger. She will have amazing support, beyond anyone's comprehension, but each day she will be the one facing the treatment. She is not only fighting for her own health, but to restore herself to the mother that she was. The love for her children will carry her through. Cancer survival is a life changing experience, what will that mean for Kate and her family? 

Unlike many, I never even thought that Kate may have cancer. For several years I worked on surgery and palliative care, which is all about cancer. One would think I would have figured it out, but for some reason it never entered my mind. I was curious as to what type of surgery she had that would keep her in the hospital for 14 days. Let's face it, in a few hours after giving birth, those Royal women are outside the hospital ready to go home. They have their hair and make-up done, wearing high heels and a great fashionable dress. The rest of us are supporting a hospital housecoat and could care less about hair and make-up. So, I assumed she would go home to recover and not be in the hospital for a fortnight. I am kind of gob smacked that I didn't entertain cancer, not even once, I am usually more practical than that. 

Kate's announcement is a reminder that cancer is a beast. It could care less who you are, how much money you have, what you mean to the world or if you have a magical life as a princess. Cancer is very humbling in that regard.   

There is no doubt, Kate will receive the best treatments available. I want that for everyone, but I really want that for her. It sounds very hopeful, and with Kate's medical team, there is no doubt nothing will be left undone. She will still endure the effects of treatments, just like everyone else does, but she will do it. 

Cancer is described as a "family disease". The Royal family are certainly aware of this. King Charles's cancer announcement came some time ago, and now Kate's recent announcement. The meaning behind cancer being a family disease, means it affects the entire family. Not the number of family members that have cancer at one time. I think we forget that the Royals are just like us, people with real feelings and emotions. It does amaze me how they have managed to keep the type of cancers from the public. It is time we realize; all of this is none of our business. They don't have to tell us anything more. I want them to have peace and to get well.   

There is very little we can do for Kate, other than keep her in our thoughts. That is the simplest way of praying that can be done. I do believe in the power of prayer and just imagine the people that are praying for Kate's recovery.  

My heart goes out to William, how must he be feeling right now. He lost his Mum at a young age. His father has cancer and is undergoing treatment. He is at odds with his only brother. Now, his wife is having treatment for cancer. His entire life he has been groomed to be King. Every move he makes is on the front page of the paper or in the news. We all loved Kate from the time they were dating, and she is just a natural Royal. Her elegance is much like Diana, and she always steals the show with her fashion sense. William knows he may soon be King if Charles can't overcome his health issues. The thing I admire most about William is how devoted he is to his wife and children. I think both he and Harry have turned the royal tides on being involved with their families.  

For those that are undergoing treatment for cancer, I can't even imagine the strength they must feel from Kate. To have her say, "you are not alone" must be so powerful for them at such a difficult time in their life. I am sure Kate's focus will change once her health is restored. She will be such a great ambassador for those going through treatments and for Cancer Survivors. It has already been said that Kate's diagnosis will have a positive effect against the disease. It has created an increase in public awareness which in turn will increase visits to websites to find out more information about cancer. 

In closing, if I were to say anything to Kate, it would be; your cancer is just a bump in your life road. Always remember to reach out and ask for what you need. This is yet another life lesson for you to use later in your life, as you see fit. Continue to focus on the things that will help you heal in you mind, body and spirit. ”Lastly, "You got this Girl".