While her public image has not been easy. The announcement that she is cancer-free at the end of 2024 brought hope, the palace has been cautious, stating that her return to royal duties depends on her health, which is being assessed on a daily basis. This uncertainty has many worried, especially after her surprise absence from the prestigious Ascot event.

Catherine's sudden decision not to attend Ascot sent shockwaves through the royal community. Staff were reportedly left confused, wondering "What's going on?" The event is one of the highlights of the royal calendar, and her absence raised eyebrows and raised concerns about her health. The chaotic nature of the announcement was reminiscent of the dark times of the previous year, fuelling fears about her health.

On 18 June, Catherine reportedly woke up feeling unwell. Despite initial treatment by palace doctors, her condition failed to improve, leading to her being admitted to hospital. The sudden development took many by surprise, as royal staff had expected her to recover at home. Her decision to seek further medical attention highlighted the severity of her health challenges.

In the wake of her absence, the palace communications team downplayed the situation, issuing no official statement. This lack of transparency only added to public concerns about the princess’s long-term health. As speculation grew, it became increasingly clear that a more open dialogue about her health was needed.

Catherine’s health challenges have given her a new sense of clarity. A source revealed that she is now more lucid about her commitments, balancing royal duties with self-care. This change reflects a more hands-off approach to managing her health in the face of public expectations. Despite her struggles, Catherine has made encouraging appearances at royal events, including the King’s Birthday Parade and Garter Day. With the support of Prince William, she has been cautious in these public engagements. Additionally, her recent low-key family outings in Norfolk suggest she is slowly rebuilding a healthier, more private life.