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Princess Catherine’s First Public Appearance After Completing Chemotherapy Receives Mixed Reactions: Photos

After weeks of absence, Catherine Middleton has returned to the public eye. Her reappearance alongside her husband Prince William has sparked talks among netizens.

Catherine Middleton made her highly anticipated return to the public eye after completing chemotherapy. The 42-year-old royal was spotted attending a Sunday service at Crathie Kirk Church, located near Balmoral Castle in Scotland.

A fan comment posted on September 22, 2024 | Source: Facebook/DailyMail

A fan comment posted on September 22, 2024 | Source: Facebook/DailyMail

Accompanied by her husband, Prince William, Catherine sat in the passenger seat of their car. She offered a brief but warm smile as William dutifully drove them to the service. Dressed in her signature style, the beloved Princess of Wales, looked beautiful in a dark brown Suffolk fedora docared with feathers.

Her chic brown tartan checked coat made a graceful yet understated entrance. William, equally polished, opted for a sharp dark suit for the occasion. Also in attendance were King Charles and Queen Camilla, arriving separately in their own vehicles.

As news of Catherine’s public appearance spread, social media was flooded with reactions. Some users were perplexed. “Doesn’t look like her,” one user skeptically posted. Another chimed in, “Doesn’t look like Kate,” followed by a third writing, “Doesn’t even look like.”

Someone else recalled seeing her at Wimbledon not long ago, confidently noting, “She look very well at the Tennis a few weeks ago!! [sic]” Amidst the skepticism, Catherine received a flood of positive messages. One fan applauded her for making time for her faith, writing, “I love that she is going to church and she is thinking at her soul too.”

A fan comment dated September 22, 2024 | Source: X/Voiceoftru62364

A fan comment dated September 22, 2024 | Source: X/Voiceoftru62364

Another admirer praised her resilience, “Strength and grace in every step.” And heartfelt encouragement flowed, with one user penning, “Good on you Kate, happy for beautiful soul[sic].” Comments of joy and relief continued, “I’m so happy for her,” and “I’m happy that she is feeling better.” Despite the mixed reactions, Catherine’s strength has clearly inspired many.

Following her recent return to public life, the Princess of Wales has wasted no time in resuming her royal duties and getting back to what she’s passionate about—early childhood development.

Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton in London in 2016 | Source: Getty Images

Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton in London in 2016 | Source: Getty Images

In her first public engagement, she appeared in the Court Circular, marking her return with a meeting at Windsor Castle. The entry, published by The Telegraphstated, “The Princess of Wales, Joint Patron, The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales, this afternoon held an Early Years Meeting at Windsor Castle.”

Catherine Princess of Wales and Princess Charlotte of Wales attend day fourteen of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, England, on July 14, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Catherine Princess of Wales and Princess Charlotte of Wales attend day fourteen of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, England, on July 14, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

She was joined by her dedicated team from the Centre for Early Childhood and Kensington Palace staff. During the meeting, Catherine discussed the project closest to her heart.

Catherine, Princess of Wales smiles during Trooping the Colour in London, England, on June 15, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Catherine, Princess of Wales smiles during Trooping the Colour in London, England, on June 15, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

It’s a quiet but powerful step as she eases back into her role with “a handful” of engagements over the coming months. This marks the first official record of her activities this year since stepping back from public life to undergo major abdominal surgery and cancer treatment.

Catherine, Princess of Wales, meets well-wishers during a walkabout on the Mall outside Buckingham Palace ahead of the coronation of Britain's King Charles and Camilla, Queen Consort in London, England, on May 5, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

Catherine, Princess of Wales, meets well-wishers during a walkabout on the Mall outside Buckingham Palace ahead of the coronation of Britain’s King Charles and Camilla, Queen Consort in London, England, on May 5, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

The princess’ renewed strength comes just weeks after she shared an emotional video with Prince William and their children by her side, breaking her silence about her health challenges.

Princess Catherine in an emotional video message on Sept. 9, 2024 | Source: x.com/KensingtonRoyal

Princess Catherine in an emotional video message on Sept. 9, 2024 | Source: x.com/KensingtonRoyal

In a heartfelt message to the public, she revealed the uplifting news that she had completed her chemotherapy treatment, closing the chapter on a grueling nine-month ordeal. Her courage and vulnerability have only deepened the admiration she inspires.

Princess Catherine in an emotional video message on Sept. 9, 2024 | Source: x.com/KensingtonRoyal

Princess Catherine in an emotional video message on Sept. 9, 2024 | Source: x.com/KensingtonRoyal

In a deeply personal statement, Catherine expressed how “life can change in an instant,” and how her family has navigated the “stormy waters” of her cancer journey together. She acknowledged the complexities of battling cancer, describing it as “scary and unpredictable for everyone,” but also highlighted the strength it has brought her.

Princess Catherine in an emotional video message on Sept. 9, 2024 | Source: x.com/KensingtonRoyal

Princess Catherine in an emotional video message on Sept. 9, 2024 | Source: x.com/KensingtonRoyal

Reflecting on her journey, the Princess opened up about the emotional toll and new perspectives gained, stating, “With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerabilities in a way you have never considered before.”

Princess Catherine in an emotional video message on Sept. 9, 2024 | Source: x.com/KensingtonRoyal

Princess Catherine in an emotional video message on Sept. 9, 2024 | Source: x.com/KensingtonRoyal

She shared how the experience has reminded her and Prince William to cherish the simple yet important things in life, saying, “Of simply loving and being loved.” Looking forward, Catherine is hopeful about the future but aware of the ongoing path to recovery. She assured the public that while she has finished chemotherapy, her focus now is on staying cancer-free.

Princess Catherine in an emotional video message on Sept. 9, 2024 | Source: x.com/KensingtonRoyal

Princess Catherine in an emotional video message on Sept. 9, 2024 | Source: x.com/KensingtonRoyal

She also expressed gratitude for the support from loved ones, stating that everyone’s “kindness, empathy, and compassion” have been truly humbling.

Wishing Princess Catherine a swift and complete recovery, surrounded by the love and support of Prince William and their children. May her family find strength and comfort together during this time.