On June 15, when the royal family steps out onto the balcony of Buckingham Palace for the annual Trooping of the Colour parade, there's a chance Kate Middleton might not be among them. The princess has been undergoing chemotherapy for an undisclosed form of cancer and has stepped back from public appearances since December. But let’s be clear—this doesn’t mean she’s stepping away from her family. Quite the opposite, actually.
At 42, Kate and her husband, Prince William, 41, are determined to make this summer one to remember for their three children: Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6. According to a royal insider, Kate wants to give her kids the freedom to just be kids this summer. "The summer is when Kate just wants the kids to enjoy being kids and have a little more freedom," the insider explains. "And this summer, more than ever, it's all about the kids." It’s not just about keeping them entertained; it’s about creating lasting memories.
To escape the hustle and bustle of city life, the family plans to spend most of their time at Anmer Hall, their peaceful country home about three hours from London. "Every summer, Kate makes sure the kids are outside as much as possible," shares the insider. In fact, the devoted mom has even invited her children to brainstorm fun activities they can enjoy together as a family. From hiking and horseback riding to baking cupcakes, the kids have been brimming with ideas. "There are rules, of course," the insider adds, "but Kate believes giving them a say will make it more special." It’s a thoughtful approach that reflects Kate’s commitment to making this summer truly unforgettable for her family.
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Staying Positive Amid Health Challenges
Kate’s Journey Through Treatment
For someone as vibrant and active as Kate, battling cancer has been a wake-up call. "Kate is mostly feeling well and is doing her best to stay positive," the insider reveals. Through it all, she's learned to appreciate the little things in life, like sitting in the garden and watching her children play together. "Kate feels terrible that her kids have been so worried about her," the insider notes. "She believes it should be the other way around." Despite the challenges, Kate remains focused on her family and ensuring they stay close, especially during the summer months.
She hopes to feel well enough to spend quality time with her parents, Carole and Michael, who recently retired, as well as her siblings, Pippa and James, and their families. "Summer is the best time for them to gather because they all live in different places," the insider explains. "Kate wants all the cousins to bond and grow closer." It’s a testament to her resilience and determination to keep her family connected, even while facing her own health battles.
The royal family is hopeful that both Kate and King Charles, 75—who is also undergoing cancer treatment—will feel well enough to make the annual trip to Balmoral Castle in rural Scotland. "One thing Kate and Charles share is the belief that being in nature is healing," the insider says. Spanning 50,000 acres, the estate—a favorite of Queen Elizabeth II—features breathtaking forests, farmland, lakes, and moors. About 2,000 red deer also roam freely on the vast property. "The family loves doing all the things the queen enjoyed there," the insider explains. "They ride horses, play with their dogs, and go shooting. It's a great way to bond as a family and honor Elizabeth's memory." When they're all together, doing the activities they've cherished in the past, they find hope and joy.
Though this summer will undoubtedly be different, Kate is determined to rest up and make the most of every moment. "It's going to be a unique summer," the insider concludes. "But Kate has been resting so she can truly savor every second." That’s the kind of spirit that defines Kate Middleton—resilient, loving, and always putting her family first.
