King Charles Accidentally Discloses Kate Middleton’s Health Update Amid Cancer Battle and reveals that Kate has been in a frightened state of mind as she is loosing… See more

“so proud of Catherine for her courage in speaking as she did,” a Buckingham Palace spokesperson tells PEOPLE.

King Charles and Princess Kate were both hospitalized at The London Clinic in January, and the monarch has “remained in the closest contact with his beloved daughter-in-law throughout the past weeks,” the spokesperson adds. Both King Charles January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London, and at the time,

it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous,” she shared. “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.”

Noting that the news was a “huge shock,” “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 said, referring to her three children: Kate 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.”