Kate sought to raise awareness about the importance of holistic healthcare
“Through this initiative, I want to raise awareness about the profound impact of serious illnesses and the importance of holistic healthcare,” the princess continued. “Every person is different, and a holistic approach to care allows those living with cancer to face a deeply personal challenge with the right support. Holistic therapies do not replace clinical care, but complement it, helping patients maintain their well-being, resilience, and quality of life during an extremely difficult time. We have the opportunity to rethink the future of holistic cancer care, making personalized forms of support accessible nationwide that can make a real difference during and after medical treatments.”
The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity supports this effort, helping to improve access to and understanding of holistic care, with the goal of promoting recovery and healing for patients across the United Kingdom.Healing—both individual and collective—is not just about “fixing what’s broken,” but about rediscovering balance in the way we live: between effort and acceptance, control and trust, thought and presence. Because courage isn’t just about moving forward, but about staying grounded, connected, and present, no matter what terrain we’re traversing.
During her recent visit to the Christie NHS Foundation Trust in Manchester, the Princess of Wales also met with a cancer patient who had just completed her treatment. Kate gave Claire Lorente, who was visibly moved, a long hug immediately after the woman rang the traditional bell marking the end of her cancer treatment, accompanied by her partner Pablo.
The princess, who was there to meet with patients and healthcare staff, congratulated her with words of encouragement: “Well done, very well done!” Through her tears, the patient apologized for her emotion, but the future queen reassured her in an affectionate and sympathetic tone: “Don’t worry—what a journey… it’s been difficult,” sharing a moment of intense empathy that deeply moved those present.
