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Kate Middleton is officially back to business. After spending around nine months powering through cancer chemotherapy and the emotional and mental torture that comes with her condition, the Princess of Wales is already feeling a lot better that she’s able to be seen more in public.
On Monday, Jan. 27, the mom of three made a last-minute decision to fulfill her first royal engagement since announcing her remission on Jan. 14 by accompanying her husband, Prince William, to the Holocaust Memorial Day service. Prior to her appearance at the event, only the Prince of Wales, 42, was scheduled to join the solemn gathering honoring the 80th year since the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp.
The Duchess of Cambridge’s surprise attendance, though a last-minute and unexpected addition, drew attention as she seemingly sent a sign of her official return to royal duties. “It’s good to be able to be here,” Middleton said at the event, her words carrying extra weight given her recent health battle. Royal editor Matt Wilkinson shared her statement on X, adding that the Princess of Wales also actively participated at the event by lighting a candle and even giving some survivors a warm hug.
For the occasion, Middleton donned Queen Elizabeth’s Bahrain Pearl Drop earrings, a sentimental nod to the late monarch and a piece she last wore during Remembrance Sunday last November. She paired the jewelry with a multi-strand pearly necklace. Both pieces complemented her formal dark outfit.
The service commemorated the six million Jewish lives lost during the Holocaust, as well as millions more who perished under Nazi persecution and in subsequent genocides. The significance of Jan. 27, the anniversary of Auschwitz’s liberation, was amplified this year as the world marked eight decades since that historic day.
Middleton’s meaningful outing came just weeks after her revelation that she is in remission from cancer. According to the Cleveland Clinic, this is the phase when treatment proves its efficiency in eliminating cancer signs and symptoms. This only happens when a significant amount of cancer has been eradicated in the body. It does not necessarily mean that the princess is cured, but it’s a significant turning point for a potential full recovery.
In her announcement post, Middleton reflected on her journey, disclosed her “new normal,” and highlighted her visit to The Royal Marsden Hospital in London, where she received treatment. The visit also marked her official patronage of the hospital, a role she now shares with Prince William.
The last time the future king and queen of the British monarchy participated in the Holocaust remembrance events was in 2020, when the nation celebrated the 75th anniversary of Auschwitz’s liberation. At the time, the royal couple also joined Holocaust survivors on stage for a candle-lighting ceremony, according to People.
By participating in such a meaningful event five years later, Middleton’s return to the spotlight gave a sense of profound empathy and steadfast commitment to her duties as a working royal. As such, her choice to show up at the last minute has earned her more admiration from the public.