Although the Court Circular documented her appearance at Colchester Hospital, it did not include her stop at the cultural celebration, suggesting that the military visit was an unofficial addition to her schedule.

Candid Moments at Colchester Hospital

Earlier that day, during her visit to Colchester Hospital, Kate spoke openly about the emotional toll cancer recovery can take. She acknowledged that people often expect survivors to bounce back quickly once treatment ends, but that this expectation can be both unrealistic and overwhelming.

“Everybody expects you to be better, but that’s not the case at all,” she said. She described recovery as a “very scary, very daunting experience” that doesn’t simply end with the last medical procedure. Patients, she explained, need time and space to adjust to their “new normal.”

Kate also spoke about how the journey affects not just the individual but their loved ones too, emphasizing that cancer impacts the entire family unit.

Upcoming Royal Duties

Next week, Princess Kate and Prince William are scheduled to greet French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron at RAF Northolt as part of their state visit to the UK. The royal couple will accompany them to Windsor, where they’ll join the King and Queen for a formal welcome in the town center.

As part of the state visit, the French delegation will view items from the Royal Collection related to France and attend a grand state banquet. It is not yet confirmed whether the Princess will attend the evening event.