Kate Middleton faces ‘same emotions and fears’ as all cancer patients

Duchess Kate Middleton made a notable appearance at Trooping the Colour, London's official birthday parade for King Charles, on June 15. 

Despite undergoing cancer treatment, she appeared both strong and determined, reflecting on her journey in a recent update.

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Ailsa Anderson, former press secretary to Queen Elizabeth, highlighted Kate's relatability in her current situation.

"She might be the Princess of Wales, but she is still a mother and wife and going through the same set of emotions and worries and fears as anyone else in that set of circumstances would be."

Kate's resilience was evident as she braved the public eye after nearly six months, balancing her treatment's challenges with her role as a devoted mother to Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. 

According to a source close to the royal household, "The treatment is punishing, and it is different for different people. And the side effects can be unforgiving."

Royal historian Amanda Foreman emphasized Kate's dedication to her family amidst her health battle, noting, "The children won’t remember Mummy shaking hands or really care. 

“But they will recall Mummy making cakes [or when] she went off to the local shop and bought something or took them somewhere."

Kate's decision to attend Trooping the Colour was a personal one, as she shared in a heartfelt letter the day before the event, expressing gratitude for the support received during her chemotherapy journey.

"On the days I feel well enough, it is a joy to engage with school life, spend personal time on the things that give me energy and positivity, as well as starting to do a little work from home," she wrote.