“To the most incredible wife and mother,” William wrote in a rare personal note shared on the couple’s official social media pages. “The strength you’ve shown over the last year has been remarkable. George, Charlotte, Louis, and I are so proud of you. Happy Birthday, Catherine. We love you. W.”
The post also included a previously unreleased photo of Kate, taken during a family photoshoot last summer by Matt Porteous. In the image, the Princess of Wales appears relaxed and joyful, dressed in dark denim, a white blouse, a dark blazer, and a scarf while leaning against a wall.
This heartfelt message marked a shift from William's usual approach to social media birthday wishes, opting for a more intimate tone this year. The couple has endured significant challenges over the past year, making this tribute particularly poignant.
Kate’s birthday comes nearly a year after she revealed her diagnosis with an undisclosed form of cancer. Throughout 2024, she stepped back from public duties to focus on her treatment, including completing chemotherapy in September. In December, Kate reflected on her year during the Together at Christmas carol service, candidly sharing, “I didn’t know this year would be what it has been.”
Kate joined her family—including their three children, George, Charlotte, and Louis—and King Charles III for the Christmas Day service at Sandringham. King Charles also faced his own cancer diagnosis last year, adding another layer of resilience to the family’s story.
Ahead of the holiday season, Prince William described the year as “brutal” while commending both Kate and his father for their strength in the face of adversity. “I’m so proud of my wife, I’m proud of my father, for handling the things they have done,” William told reporters in November. “From a personal family point of view, it’s been, yeah, it’s been brutal.”
This year’s personal tribute serves as a testament to Kate’s unwavering strength and the family’s ability to navigate challenges together.
