Condolences, well wishes pour in for Princess of Wales following cancer disclosure
London's mayor commends her bravery, says announcement raises cancer awareness
Condolences and well wishes poured in on Friday shortly after Catherine, Princess of Wales, announced that she is undergoing chemotherapy to treat cancer that was found during a January surgery that has kept her out of the public eye.
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said King Charles, himself being treated for cancer, is "so proud of Catherine for her courage in speaking as she did." He said he has been in "closest contact with his beloved daughter-in-law" since her procedure.
Both Charles and Queen Camilla "will continue to offer their love and support to the whole family through this difficult time," the Buckingham Palace spokesperson said.
Prince Harry — Catherine's brother-in-law — and his wife, Meghan, said in a statement that they "wish health and healing for Kate and the family, and hope they are able to do so privately."
Catherine's younger brother, James Middleton, posted on Instagram a photo of himself and his sister hiking as kids with a caption that said they've climbed many mountains together and "As a family, we will climb this one with you too."
U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said in a statement that the Princess of Wales "has shown tremendous bravery."
"In recent weeks she has been subjected to intense scrutiny and has been unfairly treated by certain sections of the media around the world and on social media," he said.
Catherine's absence from public life since the January surgery fuelled much speculation in the press and on social media.
Keir Starmer, leader of the main opposition Labour Party, also sent his best wishes to the princess at this "distressing time."
On social media, London Mayor Sadiq Khan commended "her bravery in sharing her diagnosis," which he said "will help raise awareness & encourage others to get checked."
Across the pond in Canada, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said his thoughts are with Catherine and her family following her "courageously shared" diagnosis.
"On behalf of all Canadians, I'm sending my support as she undergoes treatment. We're all wishing her a swift recovery."
Gov. Gen. Mary Simon also said she was keeping Catherine and her family in her thoughts, and wished the Princess of Wales "courage and strength" in her treatment.
And in the U.S., White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the Biden administration is "incredibly sad to hear of the news," and said that she wished Catherine a full recovery.