Michael Middleton, the resilient father of Princess Catherine, found himself grappling with emotions as he witnessed his daughter’s condition after her first round of chemotherapy in her battle against cancer during a visit to Adelaide Cottage with his wife, Carol. Michael appeared visibly distressed; however, he maintained a calm demeanor to comfort and encourage Princess Katherine to persevere through this challenging illness. Cancer has a profound impact not only on the individual battling it but also on their loved ones. Michael Middleton’s strength and unwavering support serve as a testament to the crucial role family plays in navigating such trying times.
The Princess of Wales shares a remarkable bond with her father, Michael Middleton, that transcends the boundaries of royalty and familial ties. Their relationship is characterized by mutual respect, love, and unwavering support evident in various aspects of their interactions and shared experiences. Before Kate Middleton became the Princess of Wales, she grew up in Bucklebury, England, with parents Michael and Carol Middleton. From Katherine’s early years to her journey into adulthood and royal life, Michael Middleton has been a constant source of strength and guidance. Michael also played a major role in Princess Katherine’s wedding in 2011 as he walked his daughter down the aisle at Westminster Abbey.
He also enjoyed a father-daughter day out at Wimbledon with Kate in 2021. Princess Katherine’s parents, Carol and Michael, are understood to have been on hand to care for her since her abdominal surgery in January and during the incredibly tough couple of months that followed. As a devoted father, he played an instrumental role in shaping Catherine’s character, instilling values of compassion, integrity, and resilience. While supported as a member of the royal family, the princess will still be closely cared for by the Middletons, including her mother, Carol, with whom she continues to share a close bond.
The Middleton family lives close to each other; Princess Katherine’s parents are in Bucklebury, a 40-minute drive from Windsor, and Pippa is close by in Berkshire. Michael and Carol have no doubt been towers of strength and a comforting presence for their daughter during this challenging period. Since Catherine’s wedding to Prince William, the Middletons have developed a strong relationship with the British royal family, who recognized the influence Carol and Michael had on Prince William as he and Kate began their relationship. William saw the Middletons more often than he saw his own father; they are said to have helped ground him. There are suggestions he even referred to his father-in-law Michael as “Dad.”
The Princess of Wales was admitted to the hospital for abdominal surgery on January 16th, and at the time, her condition was thought to be non-cancerous. But tests after the successful operation found cancer, the type of which has not been disclosed. The future Queen began a course of preventative chemotherapy late in February but is said to have a positive mindset for her recovery and is in good spirits, describing herself as “well and getting stronger every day.” I am heartened by the Princess of Wales’ optimistic tone and her message of faith and hope. Her Royal Highness will be in our thoughts and prayers as she progresses through her treatment with the love and support of not just her whole family but the whole nation too.
As Princess Catherine continues her fight against cancer, she is undoubtedly bolstered by the love and resilience of her father, Michael Middleton, who stands by her side every step of the way.