The Prince of Wales shared insights into his wife, the Princess of Wales’ cancer recovery as he conducted engagements in Llanelli, South Wales.
“It’s positive progress, but there is still a long road ahead,” William told well-wishers during a market town walkabout.
His comments followed a heartfelt family video released by Kate, featuring her, William, and their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. In the video, Kate announced that she has finished her chemotherapy and plans to return to work this autumn.
At 42, William, sporting a new fuller beard, appeared in high spirits as he visited a primary school to meet students who participated in the 2024 Urdd Eisteddfod, a festival celebrating Welsh language and culture. His day’s activities continued with a visit to the Wales Air Ambulance headquarters and a stop at the local Scarlets Rugby Union team to honor Welsh female rugby players.
William’s Arrival
Crowds had gathered outside Swiss Valley Community Primary School ahead of William’s arrival, laden with cards and gifts to give to the Prince following the joyous news that his wife Kate has finished chemotherapy.
Sandra Peters, 79, clutched a letter she had written to Kate. She said: “I just wrote I’m so happy you’re in recovery. I’m just a little old lady from Swiss Valley Park. I admire your bravery; your family is all so beautiful.”
Barry Wilkins, 54, a removal man, put a giant statue of a dragon on his front lawn to welcome the Prince. “I’m just so glad Kate is getting well again, I’m happy for their family,” he said. “William is our Prince of Wales so I wanted to show our support with the dragon.”
Well Wishes for Kate
William was presented with numerous cards for his wife, who has just completed her chemotherapy treatment.
“Thank you very much, very much appreciated,” he told well wishers.
One local, Diane Griffiths, told him: “It was so good to see Catherine looking well, you have a beautiful family.” William, who is learning Welsh on language app Duo Lingo, replied, “Diolch,” meaning “Thank you.”
“Still a Long Way To Go”
Speaking to one well-wisher, Pauline Thomas, 74, William admitted: “It’s good news but there is still a long way to go.”
In his wife Kate’s video released the day before, the Princess, 42, said: “Doing what I can to stay cancer free is now my focus. Although I have finished chemotherapy, my path to healing and full recovery is long and I must continue to take each day as it comes.
“I am however looking forward to being back at work and undertaking a few more public engagements in the coming months when I can.”
Group Photo
After handing out the brooches, William posed for a big group photo.
Since the campaign’s launch in 2021, 50 women have been awarded their caps at ceremonies across Wales.
The WRU believes that there are at least another 27 women who have played for Wales and who they are yet to find, who deserve their rightful place in Welsh rugby history.
