The Princess of Wales has spoken out following her absence

Kate Middleton has shared a new statement following her absence from Royal Ascot this week.

The horse racing event began on June 17 and will conclude tomorrow (June 21).

On Wednesday (June 18), the Princess of Wales pulled out of attending Ascot at the last minute as she continues to find the right balance as she fully returns to public duties. It comes after her cancer battle.

Now, Kate, 43, has spoken out on a cause close to her heart.

Kate has spoken out to mark Children’s Hospice Week (Credit: Cover Images)

Kate Middleton issues new statement on cause close to her heart

To mark Children’s Hospice Week, the Princess of Wales shared a touching message. She reflected on being patron to both Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice and East Anglia Children’s Hospices.

Kate said: “No parent expects to hear that their child has a serious health condition that could shorten their life. Sadly, this is the reality faced by thousands of families across the country, leaving them heartbroken, fearful of the future and often desperately isolated.

“Being able to access the support of one of the UK’s 54 children’s hospices means they don’t have to face that future alone.”

No parent expects to hear that their child has a serious health condition that could shorten their life.

The princess continued: “As Patron of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices and Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice in South Wales, I have the immense privilege of seeing for myself the extraordinary work of our children’s hospices.

“Lifting spirits through laughter, fun and play, as well as listening, holding, caring and sharing, they support children and families through life, death and beyond.”

Concluding the letter, Kate said: “This Children’s Hospice Week, I hope you will join me in celebrating the life-changing work they do and thanking them for the vital care they provide to children and families experiencing the most challenging times.”

The Princess of Wales pulled out of appearing at Royal Ascot on Wednesday (Credit: Cover Images)

Why did Kate pull out of Royal Ascot?

Kate’s heartfelt message comes just days after she pulled out of appearing at Royal Ascot at the last minute.

The Princess of Wales reportedly felt “disappointed” not to go. However, reports claimed she has to find the right balance as she fully returns to public duties.

In January, Kate announced she was in remission after a battle with cancer. She shared her diagnosis publicly last March and underwent a course of treatment.

She announced she had completed her treatment in September. Due to her treatment, Kate took a break from royal duties and limited her public appearances as she focused on her health.

After announcing she was in remission at the start of 2025, Kate remains focused on finding the right balance between work and her wellbeing.