On Jan. 9, Kate Middleton celebrated her 43rd birthday. Her husband, Prince William, publicly acknowledged the special day on Instagram. Alongside a new black and white photo of the princess wearing a white blouse, a black overcoat, jeans, and a checkered scarf, William wrote, “To the most incredible wife and mother.” “The strength you’ve shown over the last year has been remarkable,” he continued referring to her cancer diagnosis in 2024. “George, Charlotte, Louis and I are so proud of you. Happy Birthday, Catherine. We love you. W,” he signed the note.

Fans of the family took to the comment section to share their thoughts on the post, sending their own birthday messages to the princess while adoring the new portrait. “Such a lovely photo,” one commenter wrote. “Wishing a very happy birthday to the Princess of Wales.” “What a lovely picture and caption,” another noted. Four months ago, in September, Middleton revealed that after undergoing abdominal surgery last January and announcing her cancer diagnosis in March she had completed her chemotherapy treatments. In the video she shared on Instagram declaring the end of her chemo treatments, Middleton said, “As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatments. “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.”

The video featured clips of their family of five enjoying time together outside with their beloved dog. “This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life,” she continued, “which so many of us often take for granted. Of simply loving and being loved.” During her treatments, Middleton remained largely out of the public eye. She added at the time that her focus is now “doing what I can to stay cancer free,” while “looking forward to being back at work and undertaking a few more public engagements in the coming months when I can.” “To all those who are continuing their own cancer journey,” she said, “I remain with you, side by side, hand in hand. Out of darkness, can come light so let that light shine bright.” Despite attending a few public events since sharing the video publicly, the royal family hasn’t shared any specific updates regarding Middleton’s health.