William’s Close Friend Shares How the Prince Coped After Kate’s Cancer Diagnosis: 'Things Were...'

Prince William and Kate Middleton visit Meadow Street Community Garden and Woodland.
May 20 2025, Published 10:53 a.m. ET
Prince Harry and Kate Middleton celebrated their 14th wedding anniversary last month. The couple, who tied the knot in 2011, have had their fair share of challenges. From living up to their respective roles to raising three kids in the limelight, they have dealt with it all. However, one of the most difficult moments was when Middleton was diagnosed with cancer, around the same time King Charles faced the same. As William found himself in an unimaginable scenario, a close friend recently revealed how he prepared for the worst.
2024 was a difficult year for the Prince and Princess of Wales. As Middleton underwent abdominal surgery, followed by cancer treatment, William took time off from his duties to support her. A close friend of the couple recently told The Sun, “Last spring and early summer, things were really very tough. Catherine was very ill, and William genuinely had to confront the possibility that he could lose his wife and his father.” Despite her struggles, Middleton tried to stay strong for her children. The friend added, “Keeping things as normal as possible for the ‘kiddies’, as Catherine calls them, was paramount. Her mum, in particular, was a tower of strength and support.”
According to the BBC, at the end of his trip to South Africa last year, William got candid before reporters. He remarked, “It's been dreadful. It's probably been the hardest year in my life. So, trying to get through everything else and keep everything on track has been really difficult.” He added how he was “so proud of my wife," and proud of his father, "for handling the things that they have done.”
In March last year, Middleton revealed her cancer diagnosis in a video statement. She mentioned how tests after her abdominal surgery led to the discovery of cancer. Following advice from her medical team, Middleton went for a round of preventative chemotherapy. Last September, she confirmed she had completed chemo, sharing a video of her and her family spending time together. “As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment.” Middleton added, “The cancer journey is complex, scary, and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you.” As Middleton returns to public duty, she has been taking it easy.
Meanwhile, Charles’s cancer announcement came about a year after his coronation. It has not been revealed which form of cancer the King is battling, but the Palace has confirmed that he is seeking the necessary treatment. In a rare moment, Charles recently talked to a fellow cancer patient and said how a good diet helps in recovery.