Kate Middleton shared an empathetic reflection that referenced her own treatment for cancer during an unannounced visit to a hospital with Prince William.

The Princess of Wales, 43, made the personal comment during her stop at Charing Cross Hospital in west London on Jan. 8, opening up in conversation with a volunteer who worked with chemotherapy patients.

The volunteer spoke about how patients and visitors are there “for hours,” to which Princess Kate replied, “I know,” Hello! magazine reported. “We know,” she then added, touching Prince William’s arm.

Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales pays a visit to Charing Cross Hospital

Kate Middleton at Charing Cross Hospital on Jan. 8, 2026.Isabel Infantes / POOL / AFP via Getty

Prince William, 43, also referenced his wife’s cancer treatment before a roundtable discussion during the hospital visit. According to The Sun, he told staff, “Both of us have had different experiences with hospitals. Me working with the air ambulance; Catherine with her recent health journey.”

He continued, “And coming here today and reminding ourselves just how important all the teams are, all the staff, the patients. It’s so heartwarming, and it’s so important that we kind of acknowledge and appreciate all that goes on in the NHS and that very strong bond between patient and carer.”

Prince William (L), Prince of Wales and Catherine, Princess of Wales react as they meet healthcare staff during a visit to Charing Cross Hospital

Prince William and Kate Middleton at Charing Cross Hospital on Jan. 8, 2026.Isabel Infantes / POOL / AFP via Getty

It was a rare and emotional revelation from the Princess of Wales about her own health journey, after undergoing treatment for cancer in 2024.

Princess Kate released a video message in March 2024 to announce that she was receiving treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer. She reduced her royal duties to focus on her health and said in September 2024 that she completed chemotherapy treatment.

Prince William, Prince of Wales and Catherine, Princess of Wales make a visit to Charing Cross Hospital on January 8, 2026 in London, England.

Kate Middleton and Prince William at Charing Cross Hospital on Jan. 8, 2026.Isabel Infantes – WPA Pool/Getty

In January 2025, she shared with “relief” that she was in remission, making the announcement after visiting The Royal Marsden Hospital’s Chelsea hub. That update came after the princess visited the renowned cancer center and coincided with the confirmation that she received treatment from the Royal Marsden during her cancer journey.

Princess Kate returned to a more regular schedule of royal work in 2025 and kicked off 2026 with William, making a surprise joint appearance to kick off the new year’s royal duties.

Prince William (L), Prince of Wales and Catherine, Princess of Wales react as they meet healthcare staff during a visit to Charing Cross Hospital

Kate Middleton and Prince William meet with volunteers of Imperial Health Charity at Charing Cross Hospital on Jan. 8, 2026.Isabel Infantes / POOL / AFP via Getty

The royal couple and joint patrons of NHS Charities Together visited Charing Cross Hospital to highlight the work of NHS staff and volunteers as they respond to increased demand for services during the winter months. William and Kate surprised healthcare staff on their tea break and heard about the pressures they face during the winter virus season, then met with volunteers who help improve care for patients and alleviate pressure from the wider workforce.

The Prince and Princess of Wales stepped out together after their children, Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7, returned to school after a break and before a special day: Princess Kate’s 44th birthday on Friday, Jan. 9.