Kate Middleton's poignant statement as she prepares for return to duty following cancer diagnosis

The Princess of Wales has issued a moving personal statement in the lead-up to her upcoming public engagements. Kate, who is 42 and has been easing back into her Royal duties after being treated for cancer, has spoken out to highlight Addiction Awareness Week.

She emphasised that many have "suffered in silence" and called on the public to show "simple acts of kindness" towards those struggling with addiction. As a patron of The Forward Trust and its Taking Action on Addiction campaign, she discussed addiction as a "serious mental health condition" but also pointed to the possibility of recovery.

Her message read: "As Patron of the Forward Trust, I am delighted to once again support Addiction Awareness Week. It has been heartening to see that progress is still being made to end the stigma surrounding those battling addiction. For too long, many have suffered in silence, harbouring feelings of shame and guilt about their condition, despite their vulnerability."

"Everyone suffering from addiction is another human being, with a story of their own, which many of us don't understand or see. It is not our place to judge or criticise, we must take the time to sit by someone's side, learning the values of love and empathy. Being a shoulder to cry on or an ear to listen, these simple acts of kindness are crucial in breaking down the misunderstandings that so many face."

"Addiction is not a choice. It is a serious mental health condition that could affect any one of us. By acting with humility and compassion we can all make a difference and support those who are suffering," reports the Mirror.

"Many charities up and down the country are guiding individuals and families through the toughest of times. But they cannot do it alone. It is up to each and every one of us to change the way we think about and consider the many people coping with addiction. Because recovery is possible."

Kate's message comes just days before she is set to make one of her most high-profile appearances since the end of her chemotherapy treatment. It has been confirmed that Kate will play a role in the Emir of Qatar's state visit to the UK next week, joining Prince William as well as King Charles and Queen Camilla for the big event.

State visits to the UK nearly always feature a huge white tie banquet, where Royal ladies get to wear a dazzling tiara. The last time Kate was seen in a glittering headpiece was last year when she took part in the 2023 Diplomatic Corps Reception at Buckingham Palace. However, it appears Royal enthusiasts will have to wait a bit longer before seeing the princess adorned with a tiara once more.

Despite participating in the visit, it has been confirmed that she will not be present at the grand state banquet hosted by the King at Buckingham Palace in the evening, according to Kensington Palace. The 42 year old princess has made only a few public appearances so far in 2024 after undergoing major abdominal surgery in January and then being diagnosed with cancer.

However, she will join her husband William in welcoming Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and the first of his three wives, Sheikha Jawaher bint Hamad bin Suhaim Al Thani, at Kensington Palace on Tuesday (December 3). Kate has been gradually returning to Royal duties since revealing her diagnosis and subsequent treatment.

She is also scheduled to host her annual Christmas Carol Concert next Friday (December 6). In a video released by the princess in September, she announced that she had completed her chemotherapy treatment, and expressed her anticipation for "being back at work and undertaking a few more public engagements in the coming months". However, she emphasised that her focus was on "doing what I can to stay cancer-free".