Princess Kate announced she has been diagnosed with cancer, which has left fans wondering what is next for the Princess of Wales.
The Princess of Wales, 42, was hospitalised for 13 days in January after planned abdominal surgery.
At the time, it was understood her condition was noncancerous, but Kate released a video on Friday evening confirming she was receiving preventative chemotherapy for cancer.
The 75-year-old King is receiving cancer treatment as well and is not performing any public obligations during this period.
Kate announced she has been diagnosed with cancer
Getty
Kate will need to take more time off from her official responsibilities than was originally anticipated in order to recover from her abdominal surgery.
It was originally stated that the princess would return to royal duties after Easter, but the wait is now expected to be much longer.
Kate stressed that her husband, the Prince of Wales, is being an incredible support system to her and their family during this time.
According to an aide at Kensington Palace, Prince William will resume his responsibilities following the Easter break, but his wife and their three children will remain his primary focus.
Kate shared a video via Kensington Palace announcing her diagnosis
PA
This week, Queen Camilla travelled alone to the Isle of Man and Northern Ireland, both of which were originally planned as tours with the King.
Many have expressed concern that the Queen, aged 76, is carrying out an extensive list of royal duties whilst also helping her husband through cancer treatment.
The Duke of Sussex, who lives in the US, has hinted to pals that he would be more than willing to perform certain royal duties if called upon.
Many courtiers, as well as family members, believe this would exacerbate the situation, according to reports.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepped down from royal duties four years ago, and relations between the Sussexes and the Waleses are understood to be tense.
Kate was hospitalised for 13 days earlier this yearGettyIt is unknown if any information concerning Kate's cancer diagnosis was given to the Sussexes before the princess announced it to the world.
The rival brothers made separate appearances at this month's Diana Awards, William in person and Harry later via video link.
The list of working royals has decreased over recent years, including with the departure of the Sussexes.
In addition, following his catastrophic Newsnight interview, in which he was asked about his friendship with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, Prince Andrew stepped down from royal duties.
Meanwhile, King Charles and Princess Kate have both temporarily halted public duties while they receive cancer treatment.
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GettyThose continuing to work for the monarchy include Queen Camilla, Princess Anne and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh.
The Princess Royal continues to be the most active working royal in terms of engagements performed, even at the age of 73.
Princess Anne acknowledged that a slimmed-down monarchy is not the best scenario.
Last year, she said: “I think 'slimmed down' was said in a day when there were a few more people around. It doesn’t sound like a good idea from where I’m standing, I would say. I’m not quite sure what else we can do.”
There are concerns about how the Royal Family will adjust to the changing circumstances in the Royal Family now that Kate and Charles will not be performing duties for some time.