Now, as she recovers, those close to her have noticed positive changes. Queen Elizabeth’s former press secretary Ailsa Anderson remarked that the princess is “looking better and better.”

Kate’s friends say her approach to her royal duties has shifted. “She is very much in control of her return to public life. She is doing what works best for her,” royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith shared.

Kate and Prince William have also reaffirmed their commitment to family above all else. “They’ve made it clear that family is the most important thing,” a source revealed. “You can’t go through something like that and come out the other side unchanged. She is a different person now.”

While Kate continues her recovery, the royal couple is also preparing for significant changes. With King Charles facing his own health challenges during cancer treatment, William has begun taking on more responsibilities.

“William and Kate have been preparing for their future roles sooner than they would have expected,” Bedell Smith explained, adding, “There’s a sense of calm before the storm. They are next in line for the biggest job of their lives, and of course, Kate’s health has taken priority, but it’s also allowed everyone to take a step back and figure out what’s important right now.”

Royal staff reportedly began drafting succession plans shortly after King Charles’ coronation in May 2023, underscoring the growing role William and Kate are set to play in the monarchy’s future.