Back in September 2024, The Princess of Wales announced that she had completed a course of preventative chemotherapy and would gradually return to public duties. 14th January saw Catherine undertake her first solo engagement of 2025 by visiting Royal Marsden Hospital in London.
Kensington Palace confirmed that the Hospital was where the Princess has sought treatment over the last year following her cancer diagnosis in March. A Palace spokesperson added that ‘the Princess wanted to make the journey to both show her gratitude to the incredible team, but also highlight the world-leading care and treatment the Marsden provides’.
The Princess of Wales meets cancer patient Rebecca Mendlesohn during her visit the Royal Marsden Hospital in West London. (Picture by Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace)
Upon entering the main entrance of the Royal Marsden Hospital, Catherine noted that ‘coming in the front entrance here, having made so many quiet, private visits, actually it’s quite nice’.
During her time at the hospital, Her Royal Highness engaged warmly with both patients and staff, expressing her gratitude for the exceptional care she received.
She shared insights into her own cancer journey, candidly discussing the shock of her diagnosis and the ripple effects it had on her family. Her empathetic conversations resonated deeply with patients, offering them comfort and hope. Speaking to one patient, the Princess said ‘It makes you appreciate all the small things in life that you take for granted. It’s really tough. It’s such a shock. It’s the uncertainty of that initial diagnosis. It’s such a wealth of information. Understanding the diagnosis, it’s a massive amount of information to take on as a patient’.
The Princess of Wales visits the Royal Marsden Hospital in West London. Picture by Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace
The Princess of Wales engaged warmly with patients currently undergoing treatment, offering words of encouragement and sharing insights from her own experience. The Princess of Wales met one woman who was wearing a cold cap, and was on her first day of treatment, and gave those undergoing chemotherapy that they should try to keep ‘doing the things that give you joy’.
Reflecting on her treatment, the Princess candidly discussed the challenges she faced, including the long-term side effects of chemotherapy. She highlighted the significance of holistic care, noting that both patients and their families require comprehensive support throughout the recovery process.
Catherine said that trying to stay positive had made ‘such a difference’, following her diagnosis, and having ‘loads of water and loads of sunlight’ also helped her feel better.
Crowds had gathered within the hospital hoping to get a glimpse of the Princess. (Picture by Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace)
Prior to the Princess’ visit, it was announced that The Prince and Princess of Wales have become joint patrons of The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust. The previous Patron was Elizabeth II, who held the role until her death in 2022.
Prince William previously served as President of the Trust (2007-2025), a role that was held by his mother from 1989-1997.
Dame Cally Palmer, Chief Executive of The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, said: ‘We were honoured to welcome Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales to The Royal Marsden in Chelsea this morning, and are delighted that Her Royal Highness is now joining His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales in becoming Joint Patrons of our specialist cancer centre. His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales has been President of The Royal Marsden since 2007 and has been a wonderful supporter of our work for nearly two decades.’
‘We are incredibly fortunate to receive Royal Patronage – it is inspiring for staff and patients and enables us to shine a light on the outstanding work our staff deliver every day for patients and their families.’
The Princess of Wales met patients who were undergoing treatment for cancer. (Picture by Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace)
This visit not only served as a personal thank you to the healthcare professionals at the Royal Marsden but also aimed to spotlight the hospital’s world-leading cancer care and research. The Princess’s openness about her health journey has been met with widespread admiration, inspiring many and bringing attention to the experiences of cancer patients nationwide.
