Overview

• On July 2, the Princess of Wales made her first public outing since missing Royal Ascot with an unannounced visit to the RHS Wellbeing Garden at Colchester Hospital.
• She spoke candidly about the phase after cancer treatment, describing it as “really difficult” and calling for dedicated guidance for patients once clinical support ends.
• Kate likened recovery to a “rollercoaster,” noting that finding a new normal at home takes time and comprehensive emotional and physical support.
• During the visit she planted 50 coral-pink Catherine’s Rose plants named in her honour, whose sales proceeds will benefit the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.
• The engagement underscored her advocacy for nature-based therapies and community networks as vital resources for long-term cancer wellbeing.