After two months of rumors about Princess Kate's medical condition following a mysterious surgery in January, Kensington Palace on Sunday published the first official photo of the princess with her three children.
More stories:
In the photo, taken by Prince William to mark Mother's Day celebrated in the UK on Sunday, the princess is seen sitting on smiling holding on to Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
"Thank you for your kind wishes and continued support over the last two months. Wishing everyone a Happy Mother's Day," the princess wrote in the photo’s caption, signing the post with the letter "C" - for Catherine.
Last week, after rumors surrounding her condition began to brew online, Middleton was seen outside Windsor Castle sitting in a car next to her mother, Carol, while wearing large sunglasses. Initially, the photo calmed those worrying about her condition, which soon turned into speculations that the woman seen in the photo might actually be a double of the princess.
The photo came at the right timing. The Princess of Wales has a long history of making public appearances at critical and strategic moments. "Now, this picture is so funny to me because the car paparazzi shot is Kate Middleton’s go-to move when she wants to be seen, but not answer any questions," said royal expert Amanda Matta.
On January 17th, Kensington Palace announced that the princess underwent abdominal surgery and won’t appear in public until after the Easter holiday. A few days later, it was revealed that King Charles III had been diagnosed with cancer - but unlike Middleton, has since made several public appearances, increasing concerns over the princess's condition.
Additional statements were issued from Kensington Palace clarifying that it was agreed in advance that Middleton wouldn’t be seen in public in the coming months, but this failed to convince the British people, who began spreading rumors about her condition.
Now, with the release of the photo of the princess together with her children, it’s likely most will believe her condition is continuing to improve.