Kate Middleton sparked concern last month when she unexpectedly withdrew from her Royal Ascot appearance due to health concerns. The Duchess has now returned to her public duties two weeks later, with candid insight into her cancer recovery.
On Wednesday, Middleton paid a visit to Colchester Hospital’s Wellbeing Garden, spending time speaking to staff and patients, and planting flowers. The royal opted for earth-toned business casual for the day, pairing a Blazé Milano blazer with stripes and a tan and white Ralph Lauren button-down over chocolate brown trousers. Her Veja sneakers kept the look grounded for the day’s outdoor activities.
More notably, while there, Middleton openly spoke to patients about her own cancer journey. “You put on a sort of brave face, stoicism through treatment,” she described. “Treatment’s done, then it’s like, ‘I can crack on, get back to normal,’ but actually, the phase afterwards is really, really difficult.”
She highlighted the ups and downs that come after treatment, and how remission is not the end of the journey. “You’re not necessarily under the clinical team any longer, but you’re not able to function normally at home as you perhaps once used to.” She continued, “And actually, someone to help talk you through that, show you and guide you through that sort of phase that comes after treatment, I think is really valuable.”
The hospital’s garden is designed as a private space, allowing staff, patients, and visitors to relax in a serene setting away from the clinical environment. During her visit, Princess Kate planted several “Catherine’s Rose” plants, which were launched in her honour by the Royal Horticultural Society. They were added to the garden and will also be distributed to 500 other similar restorative green spaces for those in need.
A fitting cause, as Middleton herself has insight into the restorative power of outdoor spaces. “During my recovery, I spent a lot of time in the outdoors,” she noted. “That’s where I felt at peace.”
This story first appeared on GRAZIA International.
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