Kate’s cancer diagnosis: Watch the Princess of Wales’ full video message

The Princess of Wales released a video statement giving an update on her health.

The message was filmed in Windsor on Wednesday.

Below is the complete transcript:

I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you personally for all your wonderful messages of support and understanding while I was recovering from surgery.

It has been a very difficult few months for our family, but I have an amazing medical team who take great care of me, for which I am so grateful.

I had major abdominal surgery in London in January and my condition was thought to be non-cancerous.

The surgery was a success. However, tests after surgery revealed that cancer was already present.Therefore, my medical team recommended that I should undergo a course of preventive chemotherapy, and now I in the early stages of treatment.

This has of course come as a huge shock and William and I have been doing everything we can to deal with and manage this matter privately for the sake of our young family.

As you can imagine, this takes time. It took me some time to recover from major surgery before I could start treatment. But most importantly we spent some time explaining everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that suited them and reassuring them that I would be fine.

As I tell them; I am getting healthier and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that help me heal; in my mind, body and spirit.

Having William by my side also gave me great comfort and reassurance. Just like the love, support and kindness shown by so many of you. It means a lot to both of us.

We hope you understand that as a family we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment. My job has always brought me deep joy and I look forward to returning when I am able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery.

At this time, I am also thinking of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer. To everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. you are not alone.