The Princess of Wales has issued an update on her cancer journey, stating that the illness 'profoundly affects every aspect of life' after completing the National Three Peaks Challenge as a royal first.
Royal First: Three Peaks Challenge Completed
Princess Kate climbed the highest mountains in Scotland, England, and Wales—Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon—within 24 hours this weekend, starting on Saturday evening (June 27). She carried out the challenge solo, supported by Mountain Rescue, and was greeted at the end by the Prince of Wales, her children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, as well as her parents Carole and Michael Middleton and brother James Middleton.
Kensington Palace confirmed that this expedition is believed to be a royal first, with the princess being the first member of the royal family to complete the challenge. Kate trekked 23 miles with a total ascent of more than 10,000 feet and a driving distance of 462 miles between locations.
Personal Message on Cancer's Impact
In a social media message, the princess shared her personal experience with cancer, writing: 'Every year, hundreds of thousands of people in this country hear the words no one wants to hear. What follows is a path that tests every part of who we are: physically, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. The challenges ripple outwards, touching families, friendships, work and the quiet moments we spend alone with our thoughts. Cancer doesn’t just affect the body. It changes how you think and feel and profoundly affects every aspect of life. I know this personally.'
Kate was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer early in 2024, underwent chemotherapy, and announced she was in remission 17 months ago in January 2025. She has gradually returned to royal duties, including supporting the King at state visits and a working trip to Italy in May 2026.
Fundraising for Holistic Cancer Care
The challenge was undertaken to raise funds for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, which has launched a dedicated fundraising page. Money raised will support holistic care and research into how such care can work alongside clinical treatments. Kate, who was treated at The Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea, wrote: 'We have an opportunity to reshape what the future of holistic cancer care looks like, enabling more people, nationwide, to access the kind of personalised support that can help make a meaningful difference during and after medical treatment.'
Dame Cally Palmer, chief executive of The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, said: 'The princess’s commitment to The Royal Marsden stems from a deep empathy for those facing similar challenges, and we are immensely grateful for this generous support that will make a difference to the lives of so many cancer patients and their families.'
Message of Solidarity
Kate concluded her message with a note of solidarity: 'In the end, bravery isn’t just about pushing forward. It is about knowing how to stay grounded, connected and present, no matter the terrain, or landscape you are walking through. Together, we can stand alongside everyone navigating life with cancer, ensuring no one faces this disease feeling unseen or unsupported. Please know you are not alone.'
