The Duchess of Cambridge, who has maintained a low profile since undergoing surgery in January, has shared a new photo to express gratitude for the support she has received.
In the picture, taken by her husband Prince William, the Duchess is seen surrounded by their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—at their home in Windsor. This marks the first official photo of the Duchess released since her surgery on January 16.
Accompanying the photo was a message from the Duchess thanking the public for their support and extending well wishes to other families on Mother’s Day. “Thank you for your kind wishes and continued support over the last two months. Wishing everyone a Happy Mother’s Day,” she wrote.
The joyful photo captures the Duchess seated in a chair with her children gathered around her, with Prince George embracing her from behind.
This photo release is also significant as it is the first family picture taken by Prince William that has been made public. Typically, the Duchess is the one capturing moments with her family behind the camera.
The Mother’s Day celebration comes shortly after the Duchess’s first public appearance since her surgery on March 4, when she was spotted in a car with her mother, Carole Middleton, near her Windsor home. This marked her first public sighting since December 25.
The palace had announced on January 17 that the Duchess had undergone abdominal surgery the previous day. While the nature of the issue that required the procedure has not been disclosed, it is understood to have been non-cancerous.
Following the surgery, the Duchess spent 13 days in the London Clinic before returning home to continue her recovery. The palace stated that she would not resume public duties until at least Easter.
Despite the palace’s limited updates on her condition, a source described the lack of information as “radio silence.” However, it was noted that the Duchess’s recovery was progressing well.
Royal historian Amanda Foreman commented on the Duchess’s importance within the monarchy, stating, “She is their MVP, without any doubt.” Royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith added, “She’s so central to the monarchy and the future.”
It’s also worth noting that the Duchess’s father-in-law, King Charles, underwent treatment at the London Clinic earlier this year for a benign prostate enlargement. He has since announced that he is undergoing treatment for cancer.
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