Catherine, Princess of Wales, diagnosed with cancer

CTV National News: Advocates hear Kate’s message Kate Middleton’s message is resonating with Canadian advocates and cancer survivors. Tony Grace reports.

Catherine Middleton, Princess of Wales, has been diagnosed with cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy, she said in a video announcement on Friday.

The Princess of Wales had undergone a planned abdominal surgery in January. Though it was initially thought to have been a non-cancerous condition, tests following the operation revealed that cancer had been present, the statement read.

"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," she said.

The news of her cancer diagnosis "came as a huge shock," but Catherine said she has taken the decision to process and manage the matter privately for the sake of her family.

The 42-year-old princess said she is getting stronger every day with her family by her side.

"It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment," the statement read.

The princess and her husband, Prince William, took time to explain the situation to their children – George, 10; Charlotte, 8; and Louis, 5 – while reassuring them that she will "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," Catherine said.

She said she looks forward to returning to her duties when she is able.

Catherine also asked the public to respect her family's time, space and privacy while she undergoes treatment.

Prince Harry and the Duchess of Sussex "wish health and healing" for the princess and her family, "and hope they are able to do so privately and in peace," according to Reuters.

U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak released a statement sharing his support for the princess, saying she has shown "tremendous bravery."

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau shared his well wishes to the Princess of Wales, her children, and the Royal Family.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre also joined "with all Canadians" in wishing her a speedy recovery.

The Princess of Wales was admitted to The London Clinic on Jan. 16 where she is said to have stayed for 10 to 14 days.

Kensington Palace had said in a Jan. 17 press release that the princess was "unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter."

King Charles III's diagnosis

King Charles III was also diagnosed with "a form of cancer," Buckingham Palace announced on Feb. 5.

The discovery was made while the King underwent tests for his enlarged prostate.

He began regularly scheduled treatments, but has continued to undertake state business and official paperwork.

The 75-year-old King was hospitalized at The London Clinic in late January to undergo a planned "corrective procedure."

"His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer," a statement at the time read.