The Princess of Wales had the support of her brother during her cancer journey. James Middleton spoke about his sister's diagnosis in a new interview with The Times, admitting that it was a "challenging time."
“What I think is that, as a family, you learn to see and process and understand things. For her and her family it was a challenging time, and I know for us and our bigger family it was a challenging time, but I think it’s about communication and it’s about offering support and help where you can," James said.
The Princess' brother also pointed out that "being there for someone is such an important part, and it doesn’t necessarily have to be on your terms and it shouldn’t be on your terms. It should be on their terms; unconditional: ‘I’m not doing it for something in return. I’m doing it because I love you.’ And that’s the simplest way of really demonstrating love. You can do it in all these various fancy ways but actually, you know, it is just generally being there.”
Catherine revealed in March of 2024 that she was undergoing a course of preventative chemotherapy. Following her announcement, James penned a moving message of support for his older sister. “Over the years, we have climbed many mountains together. As a family, we will climb this one with you too ⛰️❤️," he captioned a throwback photo of the two of them.
The Princess of Wales has described the "cancer journey" as "complex, scary and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you." Catherine announced last September that she had completed her chemotherapy treatment. In a video message, the royal 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. 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."
James reacted to his sister's news at the time, commenting on her video announcement: "I couldn't be more proud ❤️."
The Princess revealed this past January that she is in remission. In a personal message after her first public appearance of 2025, Catherine wrote, "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."