Kate, the Princess of Wales, has been spotted publicly for the first time since undergoing abdominal surgery and recovering in the hospital for nearly two weeks in January.
Kate, 42, was photographed Monday being driven by her mother, Carole Middleton, near Windsor Castle.
The photograph was not released or authorized by Kensington Palace.
The new photograph of Kate came as online speculation continues to swirl about her health and well-being.
The mom-of-three and wife of Prince William was last seen publicly on Christmas Day, when she joined members of the royal family in walking to church in Sandringham, the royal family’s estate in Norfolk, England.
Catherine, Princess of Wales, Princess Charlotte of Wales, Prince George of Wales, Prince William, Prince of Wales and Prince Louis of Wales attend Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church, Dec. 25, 2023, in Sandringham, England, U.K.
Samir Hussein/WireImage via Getty Images, FILE
Just a few weeks later, in mid-January, the palace announced that Kate had undergone “planned abdominal surgery” at The London Clinic, a hospital in London.
She was hospitalized for nearly two weeks before continuing her recovery at her family’s home in Windsor. The palace’s announcement on Jan. 29, that Kate had been discharged from the hospital was one of the very few updates the palace has shared on her status.
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Kate’s absence from the public eye, as well as her husband recently missing a royal engagement because of a “personal matter,” led to rampant speculation online about Kate’s well-being.
Catherine, Princess of Wales attends The “Together At Christmas” Carol Service at Westminster Abbey, Dec. 8, 2023, in London.
Chris Jackson/Getty Images, FILE
On Feb. 29, a palace spokesperson told ABC News that Kate is “doing well” as she continues to recover.
The spokesperson brushed off recent social media speculation about Kate’s health, telling ABC News in a statement, “Kensington Palace made it clear in January the timelines of the Princess’ recovery and we’d only be providing significant updates. That guidance stands.”
At the time of her surgery, the palace said Kate is not likely to resume her public duties until later this spring.
In past years, William and Kate and their children have been photographed walking to church together with other members of the royal family on Easter Sunday.
Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, made her first public appearance on Tuesday following her recent abdominal surgery and hospitalization. The royal attended a charity event at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, looking radiant and elegant as always.
The Duchess underwent surgery earlier this month for a gynecological condition known as endometriosis, a common but often painful disorder in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. This condition can cause severe abdominal pain, heavy periods, and fertility issues. Middleton has been open about her struggles with the condition in the past, and her decision to undergo surgery was likely a difficult but necessary one.
Despite her recent health challenges, Middleton showed no signs of slowing down as she stepped out in a stunning blue dress for the charity event. She appeared to be in good spirits and was seen chatting with attendees and participating in various activities throughout the evening.
Middleton’s decision to attend the event so soon after her surgery is a testament to her dedication to her charitable work and her commitment to fulfilling her royal duties. It also serves as an inspiration to others who may be struggling with similar health issues, showing that it is possible to overcome obstacles and continue to thrive.
The Duchess’s appearance also sparked speculation about her future plans, with many wondering if she will be taking on a more prominent role within the royal family in the coming months. As the wife of Prince William, who is second in line to the British throne, Middleton plays a key role in representing the monarchy and supporting various charitable causes.
Overall, Middleton’s first public appearance following her surgery was a reminder of her grace, resilience, and dedication to her role as a member of the royal family. Her ability to bounce back from health challenges and continue to carry out her duties with poise and grace is truly admirable. We wish her a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing what she accomplishes in the future.
