Kate Middleton's brother James reveals 'challenging' time for family amid her cancer ordeal
Kate announced her cancer diagnosis in March 2024James Middleton, the brother of Princess Kate, has emotionally opened up about her cancer diagnosis – and how it affected her family.
The Princess of Wales’ younger sibling told The Times that Kate’s condition was “challenging” for her loved ones.
James – whose other sister Pippa Middleton was Kate’s Maid of Honour at her 2011 wedding – also suggested his family offered their “unconditional support” to Kate, 43, in her time of need.
Kate Middleton’s brother opens up about her ‘challenging’ cancer ordeal
Following the announcement of Princess Kate’s cancer diagnosis, James, 38, made a public display of support by sharing an Instagram post.
Showing him and his sister as children, he wrote: “Over the years, we have climbed many mountains together. As a family, we will climb this one with you too.”
Now James, 38, has reflected to The Times: “For her and her family it was a challenging time, and I know for us and our bigger family it was a challenging time, but I think it’s about communication and it’s about offering support and help where you can.”
Being there for someone is such an important part.
He went on to say: “Being there for someone is such an important part, and it doesn’t necessarily have to be on your terms and it shouldn’t be on your terms. It should be on their terms; unconditional: ‘I’m not doing it for something in return. I’m doing it because I love you.’
“And that’s the simplest way of really demonstrating love. You can do it in all these various fancy ways but actually, you know, it is just generally being there.”
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What does Kate Middleton’s brother do?
James Middleton has made several media appearances in recent years as a mental health advocate, and has spoken about his experience with depression.
At one point, he had a cake-making business, supplying baking kits to home bakers.
He also co-founded a personalised marshmallows and greeting cards company called Boomf in 2013.
In April 2020, James set up the Paw Print Fund in aid of animal welfare charities. The next month, in May 2020, he launched Ella & Co, a mail order dog food company that offers freeze-dried, raw, organic dog food. And he is also an ambassador for the Pets As Therapy charity.
What is Kate Middleton diagnosed with?
Kate, Princess of Wales announced she had been diagnosed with cancer in a March 2024 video message. It came weeks after she underwent abdominal surgery in January. She then took a break from royal duties to undergo treatment.
However, in June 2024, she attended Trooping the Colour, which was her first major royal appearance since announcing her diagnosis. She also attended the men’s singles final at Wimbledon alongside daughter Princess Charlotte in the July.
Kate confirmed treatment – which included chemotherapy – had been completed six months later, in September of last year.
She said at the time: “The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown.”
Read more: Kate Middleton cuddles Prince William in beautiful new video as she shares personal message
And in January 2025, Kate announced she was in remission. “It is a relief to now be in remission and I remain focussed on recovery. As anyone who has experienced a cancer diagnosis will know, it takes time to adjust to a new normal,” she said.
Kate went on: “I am however looking forward to a fulfilling year ahead. There is much to look forward to. Thank you to everyone for your continued support.”
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