Kate Middleton remains a beloved figure within the royal family. Once known as Prince William’s girlfriend during their time at St. Andrews, the Princess of Wales officially joined the royal family when she married William on April 29, 2011, at Westminster Abbey.

She has won over the public with her dedication to the British crown, her warm personality, and her trendy fashion sense. Kate is renowned for her grace, sophistication, and charisma. It’s not surprising that 66% of the British public has a positive opinion of the princess. She is a devoted mother to her three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.

Kate is not just the future queen consort of the British monarchy, but also a significant member of the royal family, as per one expert’s opinion. In a recent episode of «60 Minutes Australia,» Vanity Fair’s royal editor Katie Nicholl referred to Kate as the family’s «glue.»

Being seen as the family’s guiding light was confirmed by Prince William’s former private secretary Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton, who described her as a matriarch. She doesn’t fit the stereotype of an older woman in a twin set and pearls, but she plays a guiding role in the family and offers advice to William when he seeks it.

In early 2024, Kate faced significant health challenges that required surgery, a hospital stay, and an extended recovery. Discover more about her health crisis and how her family supported her during that difficult time.

On Jan. 17, 2024, Kensington Palace shared in a statement that Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, had recently undergone scheduled abdominal surgery at the London Clinic. The surgery was deemed successful, and the princess will stay at the hospital for a 10–14-day recovery period. Yet, Kate is not anticipated to resume her regular royal responsibilities until after Easter, as mentioned in the statement.

The palace did not provide details about the princess’s health issue but emphasized that it was not related to cancer. Well-wishes poured in for the princess’s recovery as the media swiftly debunked reports of her being in a coma. Photographers swarmed the London Clinic to capture pictures of the princess as she left. Unfortunately, their attempt was unsuccessful. Later news revealed that Kate had left the hospital without being noticed.

On January 29, 2024, twelve days later, the palace shared an update stating that Kate had gone back to Windsor Castle to recover from the surgery and was progressing well.

Once more, supporters showered the princess with numerous uplifting messages, such as one expressing regret for her time away from her children and joy for her return home. Everyone around the globe adores her and wishes her a speedy recovery.

Support for Kate has extended beyond the public, with her husband, Prince William, also taking a step back from his royal responsibilities to support her. During Kate’s hospital stay, the prince postponed all his public duties and extended this support into the early days of her recovery.

After leaving the hospital, Kate returned her home at Adelaide Cottage in Home Park, Windsor. She finds solace in the company of her family and their dedicated staff, such as long-time nanny Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo. William has stepped up to care for their three children, prioritizing family over work, as per a Sunday Times source.

After abdominal surgery, patients may need to wait two to three months before feeling comfortable moving around again, as advised by the National Health Service (NHS). Avoid lifting heavy weights above two or three kilograms. Engaging in both standing and sitting exercises can aid in strengthening the core area. It may take around two years for the abdominal area to regain its full strength.

Kate’s return to her royal duties may be influenced by her doctors’ advice. Some experts believe her recovery could take longer than expected, possibly up to nine months. Some praised the princess for prioritizing her rest and recovery, as shared by a royal household insider in an interview with People.

It’s wise to take your time. It’s important to set a positive example for others, especially when there’s pressure to return to work quickly. It’s important for everyone to witness her dedicating time to recover fully before returning. There’s a lesson for all of us in that.

Some people saw hope in William’s recent partial return to his royal duties, as he joined Tom Cruise at a fundraiser for London’s Air Ambulance on Feb. 7, 2024. He expressed gratitude to the public for their support towards his wife, stating that it holds significant value for them.

Recently, it was revealed that Kate’s three children did not visit her while she was in the hospital. On Jan. 18, 2024, William was spotted driving himself to the hospital to visit his wife. While at the hospital for treatment, King Charles III made sure to visit Kate during her stay.

Following Kate’s release from the hospital, the truth behind why her children didn’t visit her during her stay came to light. According to a source close to the royal family who spoke with Entertainment Tonight, Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 8, and Prince Louis, 5, were not taken to the London Clinic to avoid disrupting their school routine. According to the source, William and Kate prioritize shielding their children from the media and preserving a sense of normalcy without causing unnecessary stress.

Ingrid Seward, a royal biographer, also shared with People magazine:

«She seemed to prefer not drawing more attention to the situation. Kate’s family will come together in their own unique way to support and care for her. »

Kensington Palace previously explained that the princess wanted to maintain normality for her children. Even though they were apart, Kate managed to stay connected with her children while at London Clinic using the FaceTime app, a tool they often rely on when their royal responsibilities keep them apart.

During Kate’s recovery, it’s evident that the royal family has been through a tough time, dealing with both the Princess and the King’s health issues at the same time.

According to royal expert Michael Cole, the surgery Kate had at the London Clinic was definitely a significant procedure. She spent 13 nights and 14 days in there, and we’re unsure of what’s going on, but it’s clearly a serious situation.

One royal expert highlighted Kate’s trip to Anmer Hall in Norfolk during the school holidays with her children as a positive step in her recovery. Located just two miles from Sandringham House, this 18th-century red-brick home offers a glimpse into history.

Jennie Bond, former BBC royal correspondent, pointed out that the royal family prefers Norfolk over Windsor because of its accessibility from London.

For those with royal status, traveling to this destination is a breeze, whether by car or even a helicopter. It’s a much quicker journey compared to reaching Balmoral. William and Kate appreciate the family-friendly environment that Norfolk provides.

It’s great news that Kate was well enough to visit Sandringham. Her progress indicates a positive and consistent improvement. The change will likely be very welcome. Staring at the same four walls can become quite tedious during the recovery process.

Are you also worried about Kate’s health and lengthy recovery? Share your well wishes for the Princess of Wales and her family during this challenging time with your loved ones.