London —
Catherine, Princess of Wales, completed Britain’s challenging Three Peaks competition over the weekend to support the hospital where she was treated for cancer two years ago.
She said she took on the endurance challenge, which involves climbing the three highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales within 24 hours, to support the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, a specialist cancer center in Chelsea, west London.
“Many people have asked me why I am participating in this competition,” she said in a video message posted Sunday. “Part of it is personal—I’m so grateful to be here, that I’m strong enough to walk these hills.”
“But what’s even more important is to give something back and recognize all the incredible work going on across the country.”
Kate, 44, announced her cancer diagnosis and that she was undergoing chemotherapy in March 2024, two months after major abdominal surgery. Almost a year later, she shared that she was in remission.
She has since slowly returned to royal duties. She became actively involved in promoting the work of the Royal Marsden and was keen to support people living with cancer. Last year, Kensington Palace announced that she had become joint patron of a cancer charity with her husband Prince William.
“I have met incredible people, those living with and without cancer,” she said. “And I personally know how difficult this path is, and I really wanted to use this opportunity as a way to contribute to all the great work that is happening.”
Kate took on the Three Peaks Challenge alone, which involves climbing 3,064 meters (10,052 feet), before being greeted by William, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, as well as her parents and brother Michael, Carole and James Middleton.
By completing a similar challenge, she hoped to “explore life beyond diagnosis” as cancer “changes the way you think and feel and profoundly affects every aspect of life,” she said in a statement released by Kensington Palace.
And because of this all-encompassing effect, Kate advocates “holistic care” that supports a patient’s mental, social and spiritual as well as physical well-being.
Along with her statement, Kate posted a fundraising link for the public to donate to the Royal Marsden.