Princess Kate described chemotherapy as "quite a daunting experience" during today's hospital visit, emphasising the crucial role of support teams during treatment.
The Princess of Wales told those gathered that from a patient's perspective, qualities "not in the job description", such as "kindness and compassion", are what truly matter during these vulnerable moments.
Drawing on her personal battle with the disease, Kate made a last-minute decision to accompany Prince William on today's hospital visit rather than let him attend alone.
It is understood that the princess wished to express her gratitude to NHS workers who provided her care throughout her own cancer journey.
Princess Kate opens up on ‘daunting experience’ as she returns to hospital with William
|RYAN JENKINSON / KENSINGTON PALACE
Nearly 12 months have passed since she announced her remission following treatment at the Royal Marsden hospital in Chelsea, where she had previously acknowledged the process was "tough" whilst expressing thankfulness for the "light at the end of the tunnel."
Speaking with 86-year-old volunteer Maureen Gilmour, who assists patients during their chemotherapy sessions, Kate heard how "people sit there for hours" receiving treatment.
The princess responded with an emotional "I know," before reaching out to touch William's arm and adding: "We know."
Ms Gilmour later remarked that the royal couple were "so sweet" and that "everyone was really positive" about their presence, adding: "I have to say I love it."
Kate told those gathered that qualities 'not in the job description', such as 'kindness and compassion', are what truly matter
|RYAN JENKINSON / KENSINGTON PALACE
The surprise visit to Charing Cross Hospital in west London marked the Prince and Princess of Wales's first official engagement of 2026.
Kate, who celebrates her 44th birthday on Friday, joined William to shine a spotlight on the intense pressure facing hospital services during the winter months.
Upon their arrival, the couple caught healthcare staff off guard during a tea break in the canteen.
William greeted them with "Happy New Year" before glancing at his watch and quipping: "Can we still say that?"
Princess Kate and Prince William greeting NHS staff and volunteers
|RYAN JENKINSON / KENSINGTON PALACE
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The surprise visit to Charing Cross Hospital in west London marked the Prince and Princess of Wales's first official engagement of 2026
|RYAN JENKINSON / KENSINGTON PALACE
The pair later shared their appreciation on social media, offering "a huge thank you to NHS staff and volunteers at Charing Cross Hospital, and across the UK, whose tireless efforts continue to change lives, every single day."
As joint patrons of NHS Charities Together, a role they took on during the Covid-19 pandemic, the royal couple aimed to draw attention to the dedication of health service workers throughout the winter flu season.
The organisation represents over 220 NHS charities across every trust and health board in the country, contributing £1.5million daily to support innovation, patient care and staff wellbeing.
During their time at the hospital, William and Kate met with volunteers whose work helps ease pressure on frontline staff whilst improving the patient experience.
The visit concluded with discussions alongside NHS charity chief executives, trustees, policy-makers and philanthropists.