Princess of Wales says she's focused on staying 'cancer-free' after finishing chemotherapy

Catherine, Princess of Wales, is seen with her family in Norfolk in August. (Will Warr via Kensington Palace - image credit)
Catherine, Princess of Wales, is seen with her family in Norfolk in August. (Will Warr via Kensington Palace - image credit)

Catherine, Princess of Wales, says has finished her chemotherapy treatment and plans to return to work this fall after being diagnosed with cancer earlier this year.

In a video message released on Monday, Catherine said she was relieved to have finished her preventative treatment after an "incredibly tough" nine months for her family.

"Doing what I can to stay cancer-free is now my focus," she said.

Though her treatment is done, Catherine said her "path to healing and full recovery" will be long. Kensington Palace said she will be taking on "a handful" of public engagements over the coming months, including the ceremony at the Cenotaph on Remembrance Day.

Catherine, 42, began treatment after a planned abdominal surgery in January revealed the presence of cancer.

She made her first public appearance post-diagnosis in June at Trooping the Colour, the annual military parade to mark the official birthday of King Charles, and appeared at the Wimbledon tennis championships in July.

The video released by the palace Monday shows Catherine in Norfolk with her husband, William, Prince of Wales, and their three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

"The cancer journey is complex, scary and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you," Catherine said in her statement.

"With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerabilities in a way you have never considered before, and with that, a new perspective on everything.

"This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted. Of simply loving and being loved."

More to come.