Kate Middleton's inner circle: Princess of Wales' key support systems amid cancer diagnosis

LONDON, ENGLAND: Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, put a stop to the online wild speculations regarding her health and whereabouts on March 22, when she announced her cancer diagnosis in a poignant video message.

In an unedited message posted on the official social media accounts of the Prince and Princess of Wales, the 42-year-old mother-of-three announced her diagnosis while saying that she is undergoing preventative chemotherapy.

In her emotional speech, Kate shared that her husband of almost 13 years, Prince William is by her side and “is a great source of comfort and reassurance.” 

Mentioning her three children, the Princess said, "It has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be ok.”

"As I have said to them; I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits,” added Kate.

In her video message, she accepted that Prince William has been a pillar of support ever since her surgery, saying, “Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too. As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both."

King Charles - who had also been diagnosed with a “form of cancer” in February 2024, has extended his support for his daughter-in-law following Kate’s announcement.

Aside from Prince William, the intensely private senior royal has a select few members of her inner circle whom she can rely on during her period of recuperation.

Middleton family

Kate’s family—both her own and her in-laws—are incredibly supportive of her. The Middleton family is known for its close bonds, and Kate maintains a particularly tight relationship with her parents, Michael and Carole Middleton, per The Mirror.

Her siblings, Pippa and James also share a close bond with their royal sister. Moreover, the Middletons live near Windsor in the Berkshire village of Bucklebury and thus are expected to be supporting Kate during her tough time.

Ingrid Seward, a royal correspondent and the editor-in-chief of Majesty Magazine, remarked on the family's strong bond in an interview with Hello! Magazine, stating, "The Middletons are a really close family and Carole is a very hands-on grandmother, and I'm sure she will be at the helm. She often picks the kids up.”

Seward continued, “Pippa has children of her own now, but I'm sure she will help by offering to have the kids round for tea and that kind of thing."

Duchess of Edinburgh Sophie

Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh and wife of Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, also shares a close relationship with Kate. Given their proximity, it's expected that the duchess will frequently visit her.

Natasha Archer

Natasha Archer, Kate's personal assistant, has also become one of her confidantes. Joining the royal family's workforce in 2007, Archer began working for Kate following her marriage to Prince William.

Natasha is not only Kate’s personal assistant but also the de facto stylist of the Princess, responsible for her royal looks.

The personal assistant, who is married to royal photographer Chris Jackson, was even observed visiting the London clinic following Kate’s discharge after her "planned abdominal surgery." She was seen leading a car carrying flowers, as well as get-well-soon gifts and cards.

Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo

A busy mother such as Princess Kate knows the value of a good nanny. Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo is such a person who plays a significant part in Kate’s life. 

Borrallo was first hired as the nanny of Prince George when he was just eight months old. Ever since Borrallo has looked after all three of the Wales children.

With professional training in elite childcare from the prestigious Norland College in Bath, Borrallo previously resided with the Waleses. However, after the family moved to Adelaide Cottage, she began maintaining her own residence.

Natalie Barrows

Another key figure in Kate’s intimate circle of staff is her assistant private secretary, Natalie Barrows.

The assistant has been meticulous in planning and organizing the princess’s schedule ever since her diagnosis. It's reported that as Kensington Palace called Kate’s 30 charities to postpone her engagements, Barrows has taken the lead in arranging everything.