Catherine, Princess of Wales, in the hospital after abdominal surgery
By Andre Rudden-Poll and Sean Coughlan, Royal Correspondent
Princess of Wales is expected to remain in the hospital for up to two weeks after undergoing abdominal surgery.
Kensington Palace in London stated that the procedure was planned and successful, but the Princess is not expected to resume her royal duties for months.
The palace did not disclose further details about her condition but stated that it is not related to cancer.
Shortly after, Buckingham Palace revealed that King Charles III will receive treatment for prostate enlargement.
The statement said his condition is benign, and he will visit the hospital next week.
In announcing Catherine, 42, Kensington Palace in London stated that she apologizes for postponing scheduled engagements.
The statement read, “Based on current medical advice, it is unlikely she will return to her public duties until after Easter.”
Prince William will not undertake any official duties while his wife is in the hospital or immediately after her discharge.
As is customary for senior members of the royal family, the palace revealed little about the Princess’s condition and will not provide ongoing commentary on her recovery.
However, the duration of Catherine’s expected hospital stay and the tone of the palace statement indicate a serious health condition.
The surgery, performed on Tuesday, was significant enough to keep her in the hospital for up to two weeks, and her recovery is expected to take up to three months.
Many simple conditions can be treated, and the patient sent home shortly afterward.
Princess had full public appearances in December, and there was no indication she was unwell during her public appearances.
A statement from the palace said, “The Princess appreciates the attention this statement will generate,” emphasizing her desire to keep her personal medical information private.
It continued, “She hopes the public understands her wish to maintain as much of a normal life as possible for her children.”
Kensington Palace in London stated that updates will only be provided when there is significant new information to share.
She is recuperating at a London clinic, near Regent Park in central London, which describes itself as the largest independent private hospital in the UK.
Television cameras and reporters were seen gathering near the hospital after the announcement on Wednesday afternoon, with a presence of police officers in the nearby streets.
Once discharged, the Princess is expected to recover at her home in Windsor, where she lives with Prince William and their children, Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, eight, and Prince Louis, five.
Kensington Palace, in a statement issued Wednesday afternoon, said, “Her Royal Highness, the Princess of Wales, was admitted to a London clinic yesterday for planned abdominal surgery.
It added, “The surgery was successful, and she is expected to remain in the hospital for a period ranging from 10 to 14 days before returning home to continue her recovery.”
In a later statement from Buckingham Palace regarding King Charles’ condition, it said his condition is benign, and he is undergoing a “corrective procedure.”
The palace stated, “Like thousands of men every year, the King sought treatment for prostate enlargement.”