How Kate and William braved cancer battle as a family: Princess broke news to ... trends now

Family concerns will be front and centre for the Princess of Wales as she continues her fight with cancer, with Kate revealing yesterday how she went about the difficult task of breaking the news to her three children. 

In a highly emotional video address last night, Kate, 42, told how she had wanted to keep her diagnosis secret while she took the time to 'explain everything' to George, Charlotte and Louis and assure them 'I'm going to be ok'. 

Prince William has been steadfast in offering 'comfort and reassurance' to his wife since her diagnosis - while also bravely continuing his royal duties and masking his personal pain. 

The heir to the throne was cheered on Tuesday as he ploughed on with the day job during a visit to Sheffield, where he spoke to families who have experienced homelessness. 

William chatted warmly to well-wishers, who at the time were unaware about Catherine's diagnosis. In previous weeks he's also been seen visiting a synagogue in London, where he held the hand of Renee Salt, 94, a Holocaust survivor. 

And on St David's Day - March 1 - he visited the famous Turf Pub in Wrexham - where he chatted to Wrexham AFC's Hollywood owner Rob McElhenney. The venue will be familiar to viewers of the Disney+ 'Welcome to Wrexham' series.

In a televised address last night, Catherine revealed that she had been diagnosed with cancer after undergoing a successful abdominal operation in January, and that doctors have advised her to undergo preventative chemotherapy.

The future Queen revealed that she and her husband have been focusing on their children during this difficult time. 

She said: 'But, most importantly, 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. 

'As I have said to them; I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits. 

'Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too. 

'As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both.'

It is understood that the King – who is also currently undergoing cancer treatment himself – and the Queen have both been informed of the news. 

Earlier she revealed that she had been diagnosed with cancer after undergoing a planned operation at The London Clinic two months ago. 

'In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous,' she said.

'The surgery was successful. However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present. 

'My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment.'

The Princess of Wales added that the news had left the family shaken and they have been coming to terms with her diagnosis in private. 

She said: 'This of course came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family. 

'As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment.'

Catherine added that she and her family would like privacy while she battles the disease.

She said: 'We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment. 

'My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to being back when I am able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery. 

'At this time, I am also thinking of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer. 

'For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone.'