Former royal aid reveals shocking things he found out while working for Prince William and Catherine
A Former Royal Aide Reflects on Prince William’s Challenging Time Amidst Family Cancer Diagnoses
A former royal aide recently shared a heartfelt and emotional reflection on a particularly challenging time for Prince William. This moment in history, now being brought to light, involves the devastating news that both Prince William’s wife, Kate Middleton (Princess of Wales), and his father, King Charles, were battling cancer—news that came within weeks of each other.
On February 23rd, Jason Na, who served as an aide to the Prince and Princess of Wales in 2021, appeared on 60 Minutes Australia. He discussed the emotional turmoil Prince William endured upon learning that both his wife and father had been diagnosed with cancer. Na highlighted the immense difficulty of the situation, saying, “If you’re Prince William, you find out that both your wife and your father have cancer,” perfectly encapsulating the disbelief and heartache Prince William must have felt in that moment.
Kate Middleton’s Cancer Journey: A Tale of Strength and Resilience
In March 2024, Princess Kate, now 43 years old, revealed her cancer diagnosis, a disclosure that shocked not only the royal family but also the public who admired her strength and grace. Just months later, in September 2024, she triumphantly announced that she had successfully completed her chemotherapy regimen, marking a significant milestone in her battle with the disease. By January 2025, Kate was able to share the uplifting news that she was in remission and focusing on her recovery process. It was a hopeful turning point in her health journey.
Meanwhile, King Charles’s cancer diagnosis was made public just a month before Kate’s, in February 2024. This coincided with the same period of turmoil in the royal household, showcasing the dual challenges the family faced during that tumultuous time.
The Emotional Toll on Prince William
Jason Na discussed an emotionally charged phone call between Prince William and himself about Kate’s diagnosis. He described it as a profoundly distressing and heart-wrenching moment, adding, “It’s the lowest I’ve ever seen him,” reflecting on how difficult the situation was for William, as well as for the entire family.
The pressure was further compounded by the widespread conspiracy theories circulating online, questioning the legitimacy of Kate’s illness. These unfounded speculations only made it harder for the royal family to cope. Not yet having informed their children, Prince William and Kate were also struggling with how to best approach the sensitive task of explaining such life-altering news to their young children, who were likely grappling with their own fears and uncertainties.
Preparing the Next Generation for the Spotlight
Throughout the interview, Na reflected on many conversations he had with Prince William during the early years about preparing their children for a life in the public eye. Prince William, who grew up in front of the media, was acutely aware of the challenges that awaited his children in today’s world of social media, instant communication, and constant online interaction. Na noted, “His childhood in front of the media was quite difficult at times, and he knew that he was going to be raising his kids to deal with social media and mobile phones.”
This understanding of the pressures royal life entails, coupled with William’s desire to shield his children from some of the more intense scrutiny he himself experienced, has shaped his approach to maintaining privacy and focusing on their family unit. According to Na, in recent years, the anxiety behind the scenes had become less apparent, marking a positive shift. This newfound balance between public duties and private life allowed Prince William and Kate to nurture their family despite the immense pressures of their royal roles.
Kate Middleton’s Empathy and Connection with Others
Angela Terry, who met Princess Kate during a surprise visit to the Royal Marsden hospital last month, shared her thoughts on this impactful encounter. During her visit, Kate spoke candidly about the profound shock that a cancer diagnosis brings to an entire family. “Yes, the shock, and it’s not just you; it’s the whole family, isn’t it?” Kate reflected, highlighting her empathy and recognition that such a diagnosis doesn’t just affect the individual but also their loved ones.
Terry described the atmosphere during the visit as warm and inviting, akin to a casual conversation over coffee at a kitchen table. Kate’s approachability and willingness to connect with others facing similar challenges left a lasting impression on those she encountered. This ability to make others feel understood and supported speaks volumes about Kate’s character and her genuine concern for others.
A Candid Reflection on the Cancer Journey
Back in September 2024, Kate, who shares three children—Prince George, 11; Princess Charlotte, 9; and Prince Louis, 6—with Prince William, shared a heartfelt video message after completing her chemotherapy treatment. She described the nine-month journey as incredibly tough for the entire family, acknowledging the emotional and physical toll it took on everyone. “We had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and roads unknown,” she shared, emphasizing the complexity and unpredictability of the cancer journey, not just for the individual but for everyone involved.
This candid reflection resonated deeply with many people facing similar health battles, as it underscored the shared experience of families grappling with such a diagnosis.
Resilience and the Strength of Family Bonds
Both Jason Na and Princess Kate’s openness about the royal family’s struggles provide a window into the profound challenges they faced. Their stories highlight not only the resilience of the family but also the strength of their bonds in the face of adversity. This journey, though filled with personal pain, is a testament to their character and ability to persevere.
In sharing their experiences, the royal family has fostered a deeper connection with the public, showing vulnerability and understanding that resonates with individuals facing their own hardships. Their openness may inspire others to share their stories, further fostering a sense of community and empathy.
Conclusion
The royal family’s experience through this tumultuous period is a reminder of the emotional weight that comes with health crises. Their shared journey is not only a reflection of their strength but also a universal story of the challenges many families face when dealing with serious health issues. As they continue to navigate these waters, their openness serves as an inspiration to others, reminding us of the importance of resilience, family support, and empathy in the face of adversity.