Kate Middleton’s last-minute decision to skip the Royal Ascot appears to be a reflection of her desire to carefully ease back into the spotlight following her cancer treatment.
The Princess of Wales had planned to attend the second day of the event on Wednesday, marking to make her first return to the annual horse race since her diagnosis last year, but canceled those plans just moments beforehand.
It marked her first major cancellation since announcing in January that her cancer was in remission. She had appeared at the Order of the Garter service at Windsor Castle just two days prior.
Queen Elizabeth’s former spokeswoman, Ailsa Anderson, explained in a statement to People that Middleton is “being sensible, listening to what her body is telling her and easing back into public life.”
Though sources say the princess was “disappointed” she couldn’t attend the Royal Ascot, the palace noted she’s focused on finding balance for her wellbeing and plans to return to royal duties at her own pace.
“She has not been able to have the privacy that a person who faces this kind of illness is normally afforded,” a source close to the royals added.
Meanwhile, Middleton’s husband, Prince William, was all smiles as he made his solo appearance at the prestigious horse racing event. Her mother, Carole Middleton, was also in attendance, as was her brother James and his wife, Alizee Thevenet.
While announcing that her cancer had gone into remission, Middleton noted that she’d remain focused on her recovery, while taking time to “adjust to a new normal.”
“I am however looking forward to a fulfilling year ahead. There is much to look forward to,” she said at the time. “Thank you to everyone for your continued support.”
