On July 2, the Princess of Wales made a touching public visit to the RHS Wellbeing Garden at Colchester Hospital, marking one of her first outings since beginning her recovery from can.cer.
The engagement reflected her personal connection to healing and nature, as she shared insights into her health journey.
Championing the Power of Nature in Recovery
During her visit, Kate emphasized the therapeutic benefits of nature on emotional, mental, and physical well-being.
Now in remission following a can.cer diagnosis earlier in 2024, she symbolically planted 50 ‘Catherine’s Rose’ bushes—a heartfelt contribution to the Royal Marsden Can.cer Charity.
Dressed casually in rolled-up brown trousers, she seemed at ease getting her hands into the soil, reinforcing the message that healing can be grounded and hands-on.
A Subtle but Powerful Transformation
While her outfit reflected her down-to-earth nature, it was Kate’s hair that caught the most attention.
Royal observers noted a noticeable shift in its texture—looser curls and a frizzier appearance, likely a side effect of chemotherapy.
The gentle rain revealed strands that were softer and less structured than her usual sleek style.
Embracing “Chemo Curls”
These changes are associated with a phenomenon known as “chemo curls,” where hair regrows with a different texture following chemotherapy.
Previously known for her straight, polished hairstyle, Kate now appears to be embracing the new natural waves that come with recovery.
Expert Insight on Hair Regrowth After Treatment
Hair specialist Nicole Petty shared with Hello! magazine that changes in hair texture are quite common after chemotherapy.
“Some people may go from straight hair to curls because the drugs affect hair follicle structure,” she explained.
Petty also advised caution with post-treatment hair dyeing, suggesting gentle, plant-based alternatives like henna, as traditional dyes may be too harsh for regrowing strands.
Kate’s Natural Look Reflects a Gentle Return
Currently, Kate’s hair is a soft mid-brown tone, believed to be close to her natural color.
Doctors often advise against coloring hair too soon after chemotherapy, and Kate seems to be following that guidance.
In the past, she has experimented with various shades, but now her appearance mirrors a more natural and authentic self.
Emotional Honesty: Life After Treatment
Beyond the physical, Kate also opened up about the emotional toll of life after can.cer treatment.
As reported by People, she shared how difficult the recovery phase has been:
“You put on a brave face and showed resilience throughout the treatment. Then, when it ends, there’s this pressure to return to normal—but that’s often the hardest part.”
She went on to say:
“You’re no longer in the constant care of medical professionals, but you also can’t quite go back to your old self. That in-between time feels incredibly isolating.”
Balancing Health and Royal Responsibilities
Her appearance at Colchester came shortly after her unexpected absence from Royal Ascot on June 17.
According to reports, the decision was made to prioritize her recovery and gradually ease back into royal duties, balancing public expectations with personal healing.
A Message of Strength, Vulnerability, and Hope
Kate Middleton’s visit to Colchester Hospital was more than a routine royal engagement. It was a powerful moment of vulnerability and quiet strength.
By allowing the public to see her post-chemo curls and speaking candidly about the hidden challenges of recovery, the Princess sent a meaningful message: healing takes time, and embracing change is part of that process.
