Kate Visits Cancer Patients, Recalls Her Personal Journey
BBC News reports that Catherine, Princess of Wales, recently visited the Royal Marsden Hospital in London, where she received cancer treatment two years ago. This visit marked her contribution to funding a new complementary therapy unit at the hospital through completing the Three Peaks Challenge.
Catherine, in her own words, shared her experience:
"This was my small way of being able to give back and say thank you."
During her visit, the princess interacted with patients and staff, emphasizing the importance of holistic care beyond clinical treatments. She mentioned:
"I had incredible care here… but also the holistic care… makes a big difference."
Patients shared their stories, highlighting the significance of emotional support during cancer treatment. One patient noted the impact therapy had on coping with the mental aspect of cancer, while another expressed gratitude for finding inspiration to move forward.
Catherine agreed on the need for supporting the whole person, stating:
"Cancer is not just the physical changes your body is going through… having professionals who can help you navigate that is really essential."
Her personal connection to the hospital, due to her own cancer journey, made her visit especially meaningful. A patient remarked, "[She] forgot that she was a princess. I was just talking to every other cancer patient…"