She may be the Princess of Wales, the future Queen, and one of the most famous women in the world, but Kate is experiencing the "same emotions and fears" that anyone with cancer experiences, a former Palace spokesperson told People about Kate's cancer treatment.

The cancer was discovered after a scheduled abdominal surgery at the London Clinic in January, and Kate announced her diagnosis to the world on March 22. After six months away from the glare of the spotlight, Kate returned to public service, albeit briefly, on June 15 to attend Trooping the Colour, the annual celebration of the monarch's birthday. Coincidentally, Prince Charles is also battling cancer, having undergone routine surgery at the London Clinic in January.

"She may be a crown princess, but she is still a mother and a wife, and like anyone in that situation, she is experiencing similar emotions, worries, and fears," said Ailsa Anderson, former press secretary to Queen Elizabeth.

Sources speaking to People magazine said that although Kate was going from strength to strength in "Trooping the Colour" just a week ago, "Treatment [for cancer] is harsh and different for everyone. The side effects can be relentless." Nevertheless, royal author Sally Bedell Smith told People, "It would have been difficult to tell that either the king or the princess was sick and undergoing some pretty harsh treatment."

Kate chose to attend "Trooping the Colour" because "family is really important to the Princess of Wales and she wanted to be there to support them," a royal source told People. This is also why she continues to show up for her children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, through it all: of the Welsh trio, whom Kate apparently calls "kiddies," "The kids don't remember or care that Mom shook their hands. They won't," said royal historian Amanda Foreman. Foreman continued, "The children will remember that Mom made a cake, or went to the neighborhood store and bought something, or took them somewhere."

For Kate, who continues to undergo treatment for cancer, as well as her three children and husband Prince William, the need for privacy is stronger than ever, "People" reported. The former palace aide previously told the magazine that "the circle of knowledge was very narrow" regarding the Welsh family, especially Kate's cancer diagnosis. Foreman further explained this, telling the magazine, "It's really impressive that they are still so secretive." They are totally doing this."

As for her relationship with William, Bedell Smith said, "In the words of the late Queen [Elizabeth], they are each other's strength and have been there for all these years. 'She will continue to be a real source of strength for him as he prepares to become the next king. But ever since this happened, he has been a great support to her, not only behind closed doors, but also in going out in public to carry out his work. When you see them on the balcony of the palace [in Trooping the Colour], you can feel the bond between them and their children."

Bedell Smith continued about the June 15 parade and flypast, "There were three generations there. It was the perfect way for Kate to reenter the public eye at an event that is full of traditions that go back hundreds of years and is a symbol of royal continuity."

Anderson added that Kate's attendance at Trooping the Colour, a royal staple held every June, may have been just what was needed for the tumultuous start of 2024. The monarchy is going through one of its toughest challenges, but it felt like the corners had been turned," she added. "