(Photo by Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images)
It’s not every day that someone as admired and adored as Catherine, Princess of Wales, gracefully steps back from one of the most glamorous and anticipated events on the royal calendar. So when Kate Middleton’s name was quietly removed from the official Royal Ascot carriage procession list just 20 minutes before the festivities kicked off, fans and royal watchers alike were left both puzzled and concerned.
Every June, Royal Ascot brings together high fashion, high society, and world-class horse racing at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire. This year’s event took place June 17–21. It continued its tradition as one of the most prestigious and high-status social gatherings in Britain. First established by Queen Anne in 1711, the five-day event has remained a highlight for the royal family and British public alike.
The 43-year-old Princess may not have appeared dressed in high fashion in her usual head-turning bold fashion, but she certainly didn’t sit the week out. On the same day she was scheduled to attend, she released a heartfelt statement in support of Children’s Hospice Week. She used her platform to shine light on families navigating unimaginable circumstances.
The reason behind her absence is very “Middleton-coded.” According to Kensington Palace, the Princess was pouring her heart and focusing her energy into something more personal and purposeful. This proved, once again, why so many people admire her due to her compassion and empathy.
“No parent expects to hear that their child has a serious health condition that could shorten their life,” Middleton wrote. “Sadly, this is the reality faced by thousands of families across the country, leaving them heartbroken, fearful of the future and often desperately isolated.”
As Patron of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices and Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice, the Princess has long been very vocal about her support for pediatric palliative care. Her statement continued with a powerful reminder of what these organizations offer.
“Lifting spirits through laughter, fun and play, as well as listening, holding, caring and sharing, they support children and families through life, death and beyond,” the princess wrote. “This Children’s Hospice Week,” she added, “I hope you will join me in celebrating the life-changing work they do and thanking them for the vital care they provide to children and families experiencing the most challenging times.”
Her words follow a January visit to Tŷ Hafan in Wales. There, she spent time with young patients and their parents. The cause holds deep meaning for the royal family, as her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana, was also a major advocate for children’s hospices in the UK.
A Royal in Recovery, Still Leading with Heart
Middleton’s absence at Royal Ascot also comes as she continues to recover from cancer. In March 2024, she shared a personal video message revealing her diagnosis. She told viewers she had begun preventative chemotherapy in order to speed her recovery process. Understandably, she revealed she was taking a step back from public life to focus on treatment, her health, and her family.
Earlier this year, a statement from Kensington Palace confirmed that she was in remission and slowly. The princess would start to ease back into her royal duties day by day. However, she is still being selective about which events to attend to avoid overexerting herself.
Her most recent public appearance was at Trooping the Colour on June 14. Spectators were able to see how radiant she looked as she was joined by Prince William. Attending were also their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, on the Buckingham Palace balcony.
A Steady Progress
But as many know, healing isn’t a straight path. A spokesperson from the Palace noted that while the Princess remains committed to her royal work, she is “taking each day as it comes” and prioritizing her well-being.
She didn’t issue a specific comment on missing Ascot, but her actions, as always, spoke volumes. This time around, she chose to lift vulnerable families and advocate for children’s care—a true testament to her character. Prince William, meanwhile, carried on with Royal Ascot traditions, appearing in the first carriage with King Charles and Queen Camilla.
According to Queen Elizabeth II’s former spokeswoman, Ailsa Anderson, Middleton is taking her time with grace and care. Speaking to People, Anderson said, “She’s being sensible, listening to what her body is telling her and easing back into public life. She wants to be there for her children and maintain her health.”
In true Kate fashion, her quiet strength, compassion, and commitment to others continue to shine, even when she isn’t in the spotlight.
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