Read Kate Middleton’s full statement on her cancer diagnosis

Kate Middleton revealed Friday that she was diagnosed with cancer following weeks of conspiracy theories surrounding her whereabouts.

“I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you, personally, for all the wonderful messages

of support and for your understanding whilst I have been recovering from surgery,” she began in her video announcement.

“It has been an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family, but I’ve had a fantastic

medical team who have taken great care of me, for which I am so grateful.”

Kate Middleton revealed Friday that she was diagnosed with cancer. BBC Studios The Princess of Wales did not reveal what type of cancer with which she was diagnosed. BBC Studios Her statement came after weeks of conspiracy theories surrounding her health. BBC Studios

“In January,” she recalled, “I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. The surgery was successful.”

“However, 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.”

The Princess of Wales, 42, continued, “This of course came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family.”

Middleton revealed her cancer was found during the major abdominal surgery she underwent in January. Javier Garcia/Shutterstock “It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment,” she explained. Shutterstock She also said it has taken time to explain the state of her health to her three kids with Prince William: George, Charlotte and Louis. KensingtonRoyal/X “As I have said to them; I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits,” Middleton explained in her video announcement. Geoff Robinson/Shutterstock

“As you can imagine, this has taken time,” the mother of three explained. “It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment. But, most importantly, it has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be ok.”

“As I have said to them; I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that

will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits,” Middleton went on.

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“Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too. As is the love,

support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both.”

“We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy

while I complete my treatment,” she said, wrapping up her statement.

“Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too,” she added. Getty Images She also thanked fans for their “love, support and kindness.” Shutterstock “For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone,” Middleton concluded. Dave Shopland/Shutterstock

“My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to being back 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. For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone,” Middleton concluded.

She did not disclose the type of cancer with which she was diagnosed.