The visit represented the couple’s first official public engagement of 2026

Princess Kate made a telling remark about Prince William’s devoted support during her cancer journey.

During a hospital visit on Thursday, the Princess of Wales offered a poignant acknowledgement of Prince William’s steadfast presence throughout her treatment.

The moment came just days ahead of the first anniversary of Kate’s announcement in early 2025 that she had entered remission.

While speaking with a volunteer who supports chemotherapy patients, the couple heard how visitors often remain by patients’ sides for extended periods. “People will sit there for hours,” the volunteer explained.

Princess Kate made a telling remark about Prince William’s devoted support during her cancer journey.| PA

Kate responded with “I know” before placing her hand on William’s shoulder and adding “you know” — a subtle but meaningful recognition of the hours her husband spent supporting her through treatment.

The appearance at Charing Cross Hospital marked a surprise addition to what was initially scheduled as a solo engagement for the Prince of Wales.

Kensington Palace confirmed that Kate “wanted to join her husband to show her support for the NHS and to thank the teams at Charing Cross for their efforts” during a challenging winter period.

The visit represented the couple’s first official public engagement of 2026.

Kensington Palace confirmed that Kate “wanted to join her husband to show her support for the NHS and to thank the teams at Charing Cross for their efforts” during a challenging winter period. | PA

For the princess, who celebrates her 44th birthday on Friday, it was her first public appearance since Christmas Day, when she attended the traditional church service at Sandringham alongside William, their three children, and other members of the Royal Family.

The royal couple met with volunteers from Imperial Health Charity during their visit, an organisation that enhances patient care and alleviates pressure on hospital staff.

It was during this encounter that the touching exchange occurred, when a volunteer described her work supporting those undergoing chemotherapy treatment.

William and Kate also took time to surprise healthcare workers during their tea break, engaging them in conversation about the difficulties they had faced throughout the winter virus season.

The couple have served as joint patrons of NHS Charities Together since 2020, when they took on the role during the Covid pandemic. The umbrella organisation represents more than 220 NHS charities across the UK | PA

The princess chose a fashionable burgundy trouser suit paired with a matching blouse for the occasion, wearing her hair loose and carrying a small handbag. William opted for a v-neck jumper layered over his shirt and tie beneath his suit jacket.

The staff break room where the meeting took place was funded by Imperial Health Charity, which supports all five hospitals within the Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust through grants, arts programmes and volunteer initiatives.

Following their interactions with staff, William and Kate participated in a roundtable discussion with NHS charity chief executives, trustees, policymakers and philanthropists, focusing on the role of charitable giving within the health service.

The couple have served as joint patrons of NHS Charities Together since 2020, when they took on the role during the Covid pandemic. The umbrella organisation represents more than 220 NHS charities across the UK.