The princess visited a London hospital where she was treated for cancer last year, and her presence made a big impact. Her first official event in 2025 was described as a pivotal moment in her personal journey. While Catherine has shared that she has had good and bad days, it's clear that things have taken a turn for the better. Her image sends a big message of hope because she looks so healthy. We don't need to know what type of cancer she had; just know that she underwent surgery and chemotherapy, and now, a year later, she's back to full strength.

Catherine and her husband, William, are leading the popularity polls. As we saw on Christmas Day at Sandringham, Catherine was the biggest crowd-pleaser; everyone wanted to meet her, talk to her, and take pictures with her. There is an interesting parallel between how Charles once took his future into his own hands by declaring his relationship with Camila non-negotiable, and how Catherine has also made it clear that her top priorities are her family and her health.

Catherine has demonstrated that she is in complete control of her schedule, which is admirable. Monarchies often rely on strong women like the late Queen and Princess Anne, and Catherine deserves to stand alongside them. I think both Charles and William believe that she is capable of becoming Queen when the time comes. During the hospital visit, many patients were appreciative of the Princess announcing that she was in remission. She was considerate of the feelings of the other patients she was meeting, as it could have been difficult for her to start talking about her own experience first. When I heard that Catherine was in remission, it didn't mean she was completely cured.

Charity chairman Terry said she was initially a fan of the princess, but she was even more surprised by her attitude when meeting people. She was charming and sincere, very approachable. I watched her chatting to other patients and she was wonderful. There was no image more welcoming to royal fans than the image of the Princess of Wales appearing on the balcony at Buckingham Palace during Trooping the Colour in June. She was graceful in white and had a radiant smile. She looked delighted to be back after six months away from the limelight for cancer treatment. She stood with her beloved family as she officially returned to public life.

The following month, the princess attended the men's singles tennis final at Wimbledon with her daughter Charlotte and sister Pippa Middleton, and received a warm welcome. After taking medical advice, she chose her activities carefully over the next few months.

Catherine made a number of appearances outside of her official engagements, including a visit to comfort the families of three young girls who had sadly died. She also met with emergency workers who were at the scene. Catherine also shared a hug with young photographer Liz Hatton at Windsor Castle, remembering the encounter after Liz’s sad death in November.

One of the key moments of her return was the memorial service at the Sena in London. Since her marriage in 2011, the princess has never missed the event. She attended with three poppies proudly pinned to her black military-inspired coat. She also joined the King, Queen and William in welcoming the Amir of Qatar and his wife during a state visit in December.

Her final appearance before the festive season was a joyous occasion, hosting the annual Christmas Concert at Westminster Abbey. The princess joined her husband and children in celebrating the festive spirit during what she called one of her favourite times of the year.