Kate Middleton was reportedly rushed into sharing her cancer diagnosis, after the news was leaked to the press.
The Princess of Wales bravely announced she was receiving treatment for cancer in a video posted on social media on March 22nd.
The announcement finally put to bed cruel rumours that had been circulating online about her in recent weeks.
However, a well-placed source has since revealed that the 42-year-old was forced into sharing the news because someone had knowledge of her health condition.
According to the Daily Mail’s Ephraim Hardcastle column, Kensington Palace had been contacted about Kate’s diagnosis, leaving them no option but to get ahead of the story.
Last month, it was reported that Kate was at the centre of a huge security breach at The London Clinic, as hospital staff allegedly attempted to access her medical records.
The 42-year-old underwent planned abdominal surgery at the hospital in January, which was when her cancer was discovered.
The clinic launched an investigation after it was claimed that at least one member of staff tried to access the Princess’ medical history.
One insider at the hospital said of the alleged breach: “This is a major security breach and incredibly damaging for the hospital, given its unblemished reputation for treating members of the Royal Family.”
“Senior hospital bosses contacted Kensington Palace immediately after the incident was brought to their attention and assured the palace there would be a full investigation.”
“The whole medical staff have been left utterly shocked and distraught over the allegations and were very hurt that a trusted colleague could have allegedly been responsible for such a breach of trust and ethics.”
It is a criminal offence for staff in any NHS or private healthcare setting to access the medical records of a patient without the consent of the medical provider’s data controller.
An Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) spokesperson told the Daily Mail: “We can confirm that we have received a breach report and are assessing the information provided.”
The London Clinic refused to speak about the claims. but told The Mirror that it firmly believes “that all our patients, no matter their status, deserve total privacy and confidentiality regarding their medical information.”
Kate’s form of cancer has not been disclosed, but the Princess of Wales began a course of “preventative chemotherapy” at the end of February.
In her public address, the 42-year-old revealed: “In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous.
“The surgery was successful. However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present. My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment.”
The mother-of-three continued: “This of course came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family.”
“As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment.
“But, most importantly, it has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be ok,” she revealed.
“As I have said to them; I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits.
“Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too. As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both.”
“We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment.
“My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to being back when I am able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery.”
Kate also delivered a message of support to fellow cancer sufferers, and said: “At this time, I am also thinking of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer.
“For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone.”
