Kate Middleton and King Charles have become the faces of one of the most pressing health causes of our time. Both members of the royal family publicly shared their cancer diagnoses, bringing widespread attention to the disease.
© POOL/AFP via Getty ImagesThis month, they came together for a reception marking the 125th anniversary of Cancer Research UK, hosted at St. James's Palace. The venue carries a fitting historical resonance; the palace was built by Henry VIII on the site of a medieval hospital dedicated to the care of women with leprosy, before becoming one of the official seats of the British monarchy.
A personal milestone for the Princess of Wales
The Princess of Wales's presence at the event carried some personal weight. Kate was diagnosed with cancer in March 2024 and underwent a course of preventive chemotherapy, which she completed in September of that year. She announced she was in remission in January 2025 and has since used her experience to draw public attention to the disease and its impact on patients and their families.
© Getty ImagesDuring the reception, members of the royal family met with researchers, clinicians, volunteers, and professionals involved in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer through Cancer Research UK. Immersive installations showcased the charity's work and highlighted how technological innovation is transforming cancer research and providing hope for people all over the world.
For the occasion, the Princess wore a red heart-print dress by Rodarte, the Los Angeles–based label founded by sisters Kate and Laura Mulleavy. The design, featuring a belted waist and white lapels, struck a retro-inspired note that drew comparisons to a red-and-white outfit worn by Princess Diana in the 1980s, and drew praise for its refined, feminine silhouette.
The Windsor family united in support
© Justin Goff PhotosKing Charles, who is patron of Cancer Research UK and hosted the reception alongside Queen Camilla, walked through the space with the Princess of Wales, engaging with those working daily to better understand and treat the disease.
Queen Camilla has been a steadying presence throughout the King's cancer journey, stepping up her public role following his diagnosis.
In February 2024, Buckingham Palace announced that Charles had been diagnosed with cancer. Weeks later, Kate revealed she would be undergoing preventive chemotherapy. The coincidence of the two diagnoses prompted both royals to step back from public life temporarily, with Queen Camilla and Princess Anne taking on expanded roles in support of the institution.
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