On Wednesday, Britain’s Kate, Princess of Wales, visited the RHS’s Wellbeing Garden at Colchester Hospital in Essex. The royal, who is currently in remission from cancer, gave an inspiring and heartfelt speech to the patients at the cancer wellbeing centre.
In an Instagram post earlier this year, the Princess of Wales shared that her recovery journey would “take time to adjust to a new normal” despite feeling relieved to be in remission. During her visit to the hospital, she opened up about the challenges she faced during her recovery.
She said, “You put on a brave face, stoicism through treatment… but actually the phase afterwards is really difficult.” The Princess continued, “There is a whole phase when you finish your treatment, everybody expects you to be better – go! But that’s not the case at all.”
She emphasized the need for support during this phase, saying, “You’re not necessarily under the clinical team any longer but you’re not able to function normally at home as you perhaps once used to. And actually, someone to help talk you through that, show you and guide you through that sort of phase that comes after treatment I think is really valuable.”
Her words struck a chord with many, including Dany Bell, Strategic Adviser Cancer Care at Macmillan Cancer Support. In an interview with HuffPost UK, Bell expressed their deep appreciation for the Princess of Wales’s honesty and courage in sharing her personal experience with cancer.
He said, “Her honesty and courage in sharing what it’s been like for her; the fear, the uncertainty, and the impact on family life, echo what we hear every day from people living with cancer across the UK.” Bell also highlighted the fact that cancer can have a lasting impact on every aspect of a person’s life, even after treatment.
Caroline Geraghty, specialist cancer information nurse at Cancer Research UK, also praised the Princess of Wales for her bravery in sharing her experience with a disease that affects so many people. She said, “Cancer can have a long-lasting impact on every aspect of someone’s life, and everyone will have a different experience of recovery, so it’s important that people are given as much time and support as they need.”
Geraghty also urged people to pay attention to their bodies and seek medical help if they notice something is off. She emphasized that even though it may not be cancer, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Macmillan Cancer Support also stressed the importance of support for those who have experienced or are currently experiencing cancer. They stated, “We’re here for everyone from diagnosis to beyond treatment, in person, online and via our free, confidential Support Line every day of the week on 0808 808 00 00.”
The Princess of Wales’s visit to the cancer wellbeing centre at Colchester Hospital has shed light on the challenges faced by cancer patients during their recovery. Her words have resonated with many and have reminded us to prioritize our health and seek support when needed.
In addition to her visit to the hospital, the Princess of Wales also planted a rose in the RHS’s Wellbeing Garden. This gesture symbolizes hope and resilience, qualities that are essential for those battling cancer.
As we continue to navigate through these challenging times, let us remember the inspiring words of the Princess of Wales and the importance of support for those affected by cancer. Let us also take a moment to reflect on our own health and listen to our bodies. And most importantly, let us spread hope and positivity, just like the Princess of Wales has done through her visit to the cancer wellbeing centre.
