By Julia Banim
The Princess of Wales bravely sat alone as sheannounced her cancer diagnosis in a moving video message.
Prince William, who Kate thanked for providing comfort in her hour of need, did not join her in the video, but no doubt supported her from the sidelines as his anxious yet determined wife addressed the nation solo.
In her address to the country, Kate described her ordeal as 'an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family'. And body language expert Judi James has shed some light on the future King's body language, and the changes she's noticed that hint at his inner turmoil.
Judi told the Mirror: "William has looked slimmer recently and his normally military posture with a splayed chest has turned into a more concave shape, hinting at very natural worries he might have had about Kate in private.
"But externally he looks determined to present as jolly, good humoured and very much focused on the people he is visiting. His puckered mouth-smile suggests a fun approach and his hand gestures signal total keenness and anticipation."
She continued: "Even his references to Kate seem to occur naturally and with no change to his upbeat state. The message from both William and Kate then appears to be one of strength, resilience, and even a focus on their duties and their passion for campaigning even if Kate will be working from home as she recovers from her illness."
After watching today's moving video, she added: "What husband would ever want to see his wife recording a message like this sitting alone?"
Kate underwent a successful abdominal procedure in January. At the time it was believed her condition was non-cancerous, however, tests conducted after the operation found that cancer was present.
The mother-of-three is understood to be focused on her recovery. Reaching out to others living with cancer, the princess urged them to remember 'you are not alone'. Kate said: "I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you, personally, for all the wonderful messages of support and for your understanding whilst I have been recovering from surgery.
"It has been an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family, but I’ve had a fantastic medical team who have taken great care of me, for which I am so grateful.
"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.
"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.
"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."
She continued: "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.
"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."
Do you have a story to share? Email me at julia.banim@reachplc.com