Kate’s greatest strength & stay

Life is never dull for our Royal Family, but the last two years have been a real rollercoaster, from the highs of milestones to the lows of bereavement.

This January, both King Charles and the Princess of Wales required hospital stays. Charles was treated for a prostate issue and Catherine had major abdominal surgery that required a lengthy recuperation.

Then came the announcement of the 75-year-old king’s cancer diagnosis.

Plenty for any family to deal with, but the senior royals were also required to step up to cover the duty roster.

This they managed while dealing with global scrutiny, speculation and conspiracy theories and an appalling security breach.

Then came the shock announcement by the Princess of Wales last month, calmly and bravely conveying the truth of her situation.

In a statement she had composed herself, she reclaimed control of her affairs, saying, “Tests after the operation found cancer had been present.

“My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment.”

Catherine explained that she and Prince William had been focussed on processing the news and trying to manage it privately for the sake of their family, taking time to explain events to their young children.

As the public furore raged, the Prince of Wales conducted his public duties with admirable professionalism.

The couple mark their 13th wedding anniversary this month. William has clearly been every inch the loving and dependable husband and father throughout their crisis. Kate herself said, “Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too.”

On their engagement, the prince vowed to Carole and Michael Middleton that he would always take care of Catherine, leading royal correspondent Rebecca English to reflect earlier this year, “He, more than anyone, knew the personal sacrifices she was making to be with the man she loved… He will bend heaven and earth to be at her side now and do the best for their little family. However long takes.”

Of course, William can rely on staff to deal with life’s practicalities. But while he takes his royal role very seriously he insists on a hands-on approach to family.

Carole