Kensington Palace has recently issued an update on the health status of the Princess of Wales, while also confirming Prince William’s decision to withdraw from a memorial service at Windsor Castle.
The announcement revealed that Prince William opted out of attending the funeral of the late King Constantine of Greece at Windsor Castle due to personal reasons.
Although specific details were not disclosed, the Palace provided subtle insights into the well-being of Duchess Kate, stating that the Princess, who is recuperating from abdominal surgery, is progressing positively.
Following a scheduled surgery last month, Kate will be taking a hiatus from her royal duties until Easter to focus on her rehabilitation.
Meanwhile, William, who was slated to deliver a reading during the service at St Peter’s Chapel, informed the Greek royal family of his inability to attend the event.
Crown Prince Pavlos, Constantine’s eldest son, stepped in to read on behalf of William, as the heir to the throne rearranged his commitments and postponed various engagements to support his wife through her health challenges.
Earlier this year, Kate underwent a 13-day hospital stay after undergoing abdominal surgery in London, which was reported to be successful and on track according to a statement released by Kensington Palace.
While the Palace did not divulge further details about the Queen’s health, it was mentioned that she was discharged from the hospital on January 29 and was in good spirits.
Notably, King Charles was also absent from the ceremony as he continued his cancer treatment, with Queen Camilla leading the royal family’s representation at the event held in the nave of the 15th-century chapel.
The British royal family present at the service included the late king’s widow, Queen Anne-Marie, their eldest son Crown Prince Pavlos, and various members of the Greek royal family.
Constantine II of Greece, who passed away in January at the age of 82, held a significant place in William’s life as his godfather and close friend, as well as a cousin to King Charles.
Additionally, the former monarch served as the godfather to Lady Gabriella Kingston, daughter of Prince and Princess Michael of Kent.
Constantine’s reign began in 1964 when he ascended the throne at a young age of 23, initially garnering widespread popularity among the Greek populace.
However, his involvement in political plots that led to the downfall of the elected government under Prime Minister George Papandreou in the following years tarnished his reputation.
The resulting instability culminated in a military coup in 1967, which led to Constantine’s exile as he clashed with the ruling military regime.
Subsequently, the monarchy was abolished in 1973 by the dictatorship, and despite hopes for a restoration of his rule following the return of democracy in 1974, Constantine’s aspirations were thwarted.