Prince Williamwill be an “anchor” for his children amidKate Middleton’s cancer treatment, according toQueen Elizabeth’s former press secretary.
Ailsa Anderson, who previously held the role for the late royal, speaks exclusively with PEOPLE following Princess Kate’sannouncement that she has been diagnosed with cancerand is going through treatment.
“He is going to be the anchor for his children," Anderson says of William, 41, who is now expected to stagger how he works, much like he has done since Kate was admitted to the hospital for her initial operation.Anderson adds that the timing of the public announcement — which was made in a personal video message from the princess herself — reveals that the royal couple’s focus is on their three children:Prince George, 10,Princess Charlotte, 8, andPrince Louis, 5.
“They are protecting their children. They are thinking about their welfare above everything," she explains.
Catherine, Princess of Wales, Princess Charlotte of Wales, Prince George of Wales, Prince William, Prince of Wales, Prince Louis of Wales attend the Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church on December 25, 2023 in Sandringham, Norfolk.Samir Hussein/WireImage
Samir Hussein/WireImage
In Princess Kate’s announcement, the 42-year-old royal revealed that she “underwent major abdominal surgery” and that, despite the “successful” results of surgery, “tests after the operation found cancer had been present.”
Kate then explained that her medical team advised that she should “undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy” and she is “now in the early stages of that treatment.”
The princess also made note that “it has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be ok.”
Kate Middleton announces cancer diagnosis on March 22, 2024.BBC Studios
BBC Studios
Anderson tells PEOPLE that Princess Kate’s Friday announcement will “resonate” with those living with cancer.
On the subject of theconspiracy theories sharedonline during the princess' absence from public duties, Anderson says, “For those people who have been vile on social media, they need to look at what they post.”
“No one knows what goes on in anyone’s household. All the messages I have received are of sympathy. How can you not be sympathetic?” she continues, adding of Kate, “She’s not just a senior member of the royal family, but she’s also a mother of young children — she’s so young. I’m sure the whole world will be with her.”
Prince William, Prince of Wales and Catherine, Princess of Wales attend a ceremonial welcome for The President and the First Lady of the Republic of Korea at Horse Guards Parade on November 21, 2023 in London, England.Samir Hussein/WireImage
Anderson also highlights how it is important for those who are dealing with illness, like the Princess of Wales, to focus on their recovery.
“People who are ill have just got to focus on that and can’t let the noise affect them. I hope she has the inner strength — and I’m sure she has — to do so,” she says.
“She has the support of her husband and has his family, and her extraordinary family, through all the trolling and vitriol so she can actually focus on what’s important — which is her getting back to strength, for her wellbeing and her children and husband," Anderson adds.
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On Friday, a Buckingham Palace spokesperson told PEOPLE that King Charles,who is undergoing cancer treatmenthimself, is “so proud of Catherine for her courage in speaking as she did.”
Meghan MarkleandPrince Harryalsoshared their well wishes for Princess Katein a statement shared with PEOPLE on Friday. “We wish health and healing for Kate and the family, and hope they are able to do so privately and in peace,” the statement read.
source: people.com
