Kate Middleton’s cancer diagnosis came as a shock to some of her close friends, says pal

Before publicly announcing her cancer diagnosis last week, Kate Middleton confided in a select few individuals, keeping other close friends unaware to prevent potential leaks of the sensitive information.

As revealed by a friend of the Princess of Wales to PEOPLE Magazine, this decision left some of her associates surprised upon hearing the news.

On Friday, March 22, Kate addressed the public in a video, disclosing that her recent absence from the spotlight was due to her ongoing battle with cancer. Following abdominal surgery in January, subsequent tests revealed the presence of cancer.

The announcement reverberated globally, especially given King Charles’s current fight against the same disease.

Kate’s courageous message followed weeks of speculation about her well-being and whereabouts, with both the media and the public raising various questions.

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

“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.”

While receiving immense support from her nation, family, and friends, Kate reportedly couldn’t inform all her closest companions about her diagnosis to prevent potential media exposure.

According to PEOPLE Magazine, certain trusted friends and confidants were not privy to Kate’s cancer diagnosis, leaving one acquaintance taken aback.

“It was a heck of a shock,” remarked the friend.

A former palace aide further noted, “The circle of knowledge was very tight.”

Reports earlier this week suggested that even Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were not included in the list of individuals briefed before Kate’s video announcement. However, conflicting sources indicate they might have been informed but cautioned against breaching confidentiality.

One can scarcely fathom the emotional turmoil Kate endured upon receiving her diagnosis and then grappling with the delicate task of informing her loved ones. Moreover, the daunting prospect of eventually disclosing the news to the public must have weighed heavily on her.

As per reports, Kate and her family plan to spend the upcoming weeks together during the Easter break from school for the children. While Prince William is expected to resume his royal responsibilities as usual thereafter, it is anticipated that Kate’s return to official engagements – originally slated by Kensington Palace for post-Easter – will be contingent on her ongoing recovery.

“The Princess will resume her official duties once she receives clearance from her medical team,” stated a palace spokesperson on Friday. “She remains in good spirits and is focused on achieving a full recovery.”