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In a new royal biography, Catherine the Princess of Wales by author Robert Jobson, fresh details have emerged about Kate Middleton's health as a teenager and her earlier reluctance to take on the prestigious title of Princess of Wales.
The book reveals that as a student at Marlborough College, Kate discovered a lump on the left side of her head just under her hairline. Her mother Carol took her to the hospital where doctors performed emergency surgery to remove it, leaving a 3-inch scar.
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While the operation was successful in removing whatever the lump was, the scar remained and was noticeable during some of Kate's earliest solo royal engagements over two decades ago. Thankfully, it seems to have been an isolated health issue for her as a youth.
Fast forward to 2022, Kate's public announced in March that she had been diagnosed with cancer and was undergoing chemotherapy treatment. In subsequent messages, she thanked the public for their support but said treatment was ongoing and she wasn't "out of the woods yet."
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True to her word, the Princess of Wales has still made some public appearances this summer, like presenting the trophy at the Wimbledon men's final just last month while continuing her treatment regimen behind the scenes.
The biography also sheds light on Kate's initial reluctance to use Diana's honorary title of Princess of Wales after marrying Prince William in 2011. She was understandably daunted by having to live up to the beloved People's Princess in the public eye.
Jobson writes that Kate even considered following Camilla Parker Bowles' lead in refusing the Wales title out of the fear of constant comparison to the late princess upon Charles becoming king. But over the past decade, Kate has more than proven herself.
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By 2022 when Charles did ascend the throne, paving the way for William's investiture as Prince of Wales, Kate had earned the confidence to take on Diana's title at long last. She has filled those iconic shoes with immense grace, class and compassion.
Despite her current health battle, Kate remains devoted to boosting causes close to her heart like early childhood development. She's also been a source of stability for William as they jointly support their new roles at the forefront of the royal line of succession.
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The emerging details in Jobson's book provide new context for Kate's journey - from a health scare and operation as a teen to doubt over her place in the House of Windsor, and finally becoming one of the most popular members today as she honors both Diana's legacy and her own path.
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Through dedication, poise and kindness over the years, Kate has undoubtedly made the title of Princess of Wales her own while paying tribute to the woman who held it before. With the support of William and their family, she will surely continue to thrive in her duties for many years to come.
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