The Princess of Wales was back at the Commonwealth Day service of celebration this year! Her Royal Highness joined Prince William, King Charles and Queen Camilla at the event on Monday, March 10. Catherine recycled her red Catherine Walker coat dress featuring a bow detail for the service. The Princess completed her regal look with a matching Gina Foster hat, as well as a four-strand pearl choker necklace that belonged to Queen Elizabeth and what appeared to be Princess Diana's Collingwood pearl drop earrings.
The Princess of Wales was all smiles inside and outside of the Abbey with Prince William on Monday. The service was also attended by Princess Anne, and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester. This year’s Commonwealth Day theme was "Together We Thrive." According to The Commonwealth website, the theme is "rooted in the principles of family, unity and peace" and "highlights the importance of fostering strong and connected communities that support and empower their members, enabling meaningful progress."
Catherine missed last year's Commonwealth Day service. Following her major abdominal surgery in January 2024, Kensington Palace said that the Princess was "unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter." Unbeknownst to the public at the time of last year's service, the Princess of Wales had begun a course of preventative chemotherapy in late February 2024. Catherine revealed on March 22, 2024 that she was in the early stages of that treatment.
Her Royal Highness announced in September that she had completed her chemotherapy treatment. In a personal message, the Princess said, "The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown. The cancer journey is complex, scary and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you."
"With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerabilities in a way you have never considered before, and with that, a new perspective on everything. This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted. Of simply loving and being loved. Doing what I can to stay cancer free is now my focus," Catherine continued. "Although I have finished chemotherapy, my path to healing and full recovery is long and I must continue to take each day as it comes. I am however looking forward to being back at work and undertaking a few more public engagements in the coming months when I can. Despite all that has gone before I enter this new phase of recovery with a renewed sense of hope and appreciation of life."
The Princess concluded her message saying, "William and I are so grateful for the support we have received and have drawn great strength from all those who are helping us at this time. Everyone’s kindness, empathy and compassion has been truly humbling. To all those who are continuing their own cancer journey – I remain with you, side by side, hand in hand. Out of darkness, can come light, so let that light shine bright."
The Princess of Wales is now in remission. Following her first public appearance of 2025, Her Royal Highness penned in a message on social media, "It is a relief to now be in remission and I remain focussed on recovery. As anyone who has experienced a cancer diagnosis will know, it takes time to adjust to a new normal. I am however looking forward to a fulfilling year ahead. There is much to look forward to. Thank you to everyone for your continued support."