William and Kate 'Keen to Pull Back a Little' After Cancer Recovery

Prince William and Kate Middleton are more in love than ever these days as they get ready to become king and queen, and a source exclusively tells Life & Style they’ve been granted permission from ailing King Charles to take more time off in order to enjoy the princess’ rebounding health with as little pressure on them as possible.

“William really stepped up during Kate’s illness. He took on so many extra duties even in the midst of dealing with a sick wife,” the insider says. “It’s what had to be done, and he got on with it, but it certainly took a huge toll.” 

The Princess of Wales, 43, recently bounced back from a terrible bout with cancer throughout most of 2024. She was admitted to the hospital for “planned abdominal surgery” in January that year, though details at the time were scarce and the Palace said she would be off her feat and out of the public eye until at least Easter. 

“She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible; and her wish that her personal medical information remains private,” the Crown said at the time.

William, 42, took up public duties in February, appearing alone at several functions throughout the spring. A strange incident concerning an altered photo published on British Mother’s Day in March led to intense speculation — and even quite a bit of criticism — but later that month she gave an update and announced her cancer diagnosis, putting the matter to bed as royal watchers around the world shared their sympathies. After a successful round of chemotherapy, she reappeared for the first time in June looking healthy and from then on has been slowly returning to full duties.

“Now that she’s feeling better and the constant fear of losing her has eased off, William’s big focus has been on making the most of their time and this second chance at life together,” the insider reveals. “He’s spoken to his father and gotten the go-ahead to tone down the frenetic pace, Charles doesn’t want to see William burn out and he certainly doesn’t want to overload Kate when she’s still fragile.” 

The King, 76, has been dealing with his own health woes since announcing he’s also undergoing chemotherapy in February 2024, with the source adding, “No doubt Charles’ own battle with cancer has made him especially sensitive to what Kate has gone through.” 

With that understanding, “He’s told her and William to take whatever time they need. They won’t go overboard but they are very keen to pull back a little so they can focus on each other more. That means more romantic dinners, more long walks and more holidays.” 

“They’re mapping out summer plans right now, with the usual family trips to Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly, but they’re also looking to take a romantic holiday just the two of them and talking about going back to the Seychelles where they honeymooned.”