Late Friday, Catherine, also known as Kate the Princess of Wales, announced she has been diagnosed with cancer and receiving “early stages” of chemotherapy treatment.

In a video statement released on social media, the princess said it was a “huge shock” describing her diagnosis.

The announcement comes two months after she took a temporary leave of absence from public life to undergo surgery for a non-cancerous stomach illness, according to Kensington Palace.

"In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London, and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous," said Catherine, 42, who is married to Prince William, the British heir.

A royal source said that Prince William has been balancing, and supporting his wife and children with his public-facing obligations and will continue to do so.

The princess began preventative chemotherapy in late February, according to the source. Kate was supposed to return to official responsibilities after Easter, but she will now postpone further activity until she has been cleared by her medical staff.

Kensington Palace is not likely to divulge any additional medical information, about the sort of cancer or stage it is in.