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How the 'Haughty' Have Fallen: Princess Michael of Kent 'Breaks Both Wrists' After Tumble Before King Charles' Christmas Lunch

Princess Michael of Kent had a frightful fall at Kensington Palace before King Charles' annual Christmas lunch, leading to both of her wrists sustaining fractures.

Princess Michael of Kent, 79, who once wore a "racially insensitive broach" when mingling with Meghan Markle, 43, took a tumble down the stairs of her Kensington Palace home.

The incident occurred as Her Royal Highness descended the stairs while carrying multiple overcoats, leading her to instinctively extend her hands to break the fall, which caused multiple small bone fractures in her wrists.

Despite her injuries, Princess Michael, born Baroness Marie-Christine von Reibnitz, demonstrated resilience by attending King Charles III's pre-Christmas luncheon at Buckingham Palace on Thursday, December 19, with both wrists supported by splints.

She acknowledged the challenges posed by her condition, stating, "So many things that you rely on being able to do, like cleaning your teeth, are impossible." She also expressed caution regarding her recovery, noting that any premature or incorrect movement could impede the healing process.

This incident adds to a series of health challenges for the princess. Approximately a year prior, she underwent heart surgery to address a significant health issue. Reflecting on that experience, she mentioned, "It shocked me. I still have to rest every afternoon," indicating the ongoing impact on her daily routine.

In addition to her personal health struggles, Princess Michael has been coping with family tragedies. Earlier this year, her son-in-law, Thomas Kingston, husband of Lady Gabriella Windsor, 43, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 45. His death was attributed to a traumatic head injury, with an inquest revealing that it was a sudden act influenced by adverse reactions to antidepressants.

Princess Michael, once called "haughty" by a royal insider, paid tribute to him, describing Thomas as "a lovely man, so kind and so thoughtful," and expressed that the family had no prior indication of any underlying issues.

Despite these adversities, Princess Michael continues to fulfill her royal engagements and support her family. Her attendance at the recent royal luncheon, alongside her husband, Prince Michael of Kent, 82, underscores her commitment to her duties and her resilience in the face of personal challenges.

The couple, though not working royals, actively participate in family events and support various charitable causes.

As she approaches her 80th birthday on January 15, Princess Michael's recent experiences highlight the physical and emotional challenges faced by members of the royal family in 2024 and their dedication to public service and family responsibilities.

A palace source shared, "Her ability to maintain her commitments, despite personal health issues and family tragedies, reflects her steadfastness and resilience. The princess believes wholeheartedly in the grandiose side of royalty and defends it to the core, but she also embraces the humanitarian component of monarchy as well."

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Daily Express reported on Princess Michael's fall.