The annual St. Patrick’s Day procession by the Irish Guards on Sunday, March 17, was missing a familiar face this year.
Princess Catherine, who typically graces the event, was notably absent as she continues her recovery from a planned abdominal surgery she underwent in January.
This marked the third consecutive year that the Princess was unable to attend the festivities, following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021.
In recent years, Princess Catherine has been a regular presence at the Christmas party, often accompanied by her husband, the Prince of Wales, who previously held the title of monarch.
Her role as Honorary Colonel of the Irish Guards, bestowed upon her in 2022, holds great significance for her.
During the commemoration in March 2023, Catherine expressed her deep honor at the appointment, emphasizing her commitment to supporting and uplifting the guards in their service.
Acknowledging the absence of both Princess Catherine and the Prince of Wales from this year’s march, Lady Gicca, wife of Regimental Lieutenant Colonel Major General Sir Christopher Gicca, stepped in to fulfill Catherine’s customary duty of presenting shamrock sprigs to the guards as pins.
Meanwhile, the three-year-old Irish wolfhound Seamus, serving as the mascot for the Irish Guards, received a warm welcome during the event.
Reports suggest that the Irish Guards paid tribute to Princess Catherine during the parade, with plans for a special three-cheers salute in her honor at the conclusion of the event.
Kensington Palace confirmed recently that Catherine had undergone stomach surgery and would be refraining from royal engagements until after Easter, explaining her absence from public events.
In response to speculations surrounding her whereabouts, Princess Catherine shared a heartfelt photo on UK Mother’s Day, featuring herself with her three children and the Prince of Wales.
However, the image faced scrutiny and was removed from various news platforms over allegations of manipulation.
Addressing the controversy, Catherine clarified that any discrepancies in the photo were unintentional, extending warm wishes for Mother’s Day to all.
Aside from the disputed family portrait, limited glimpses of Princess Catherine have emerged, including two blurry images of her in a car, one alongside her mother Carol Middleton and the other with the Prince of Wales.
Details regarding Catherine’s surgical procedure and recovery have been closely guarded within her inner circle, adding to the air of mystery surrounding her health situation.
As Princess Catherine continues her recuperation, the public remains eager for updates on her progress and eventual return to official duties.
The support and well-wishes extended to her from both the royal family and the public reflect the admiration and respect she commands in her role as a prominent figure within the monarchy.