Overview

• Unannounced July 2 visit to the RHS Wellbeing Garden at Colchester Hospital marked her first public outing since withdrawing from Royal Ascot
• The Princess said the phase after completing treatment is “really difficult,” noting that patients lose clinical oversight yet struggle to function normally at home
• She described recovery as a “rollercoaster” rather than a smooth path, underscoring the need to find a new normal at its own pace
• Kate helped plant 50 ‘Catherine’s Rose’ donation plants in the garden, with proceeds from sales directed to the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity
• She used the engagement to champion holistic care services and illustrate nature’s healing power for cancer survivors and their families