Princess Katherine has released an emotional letter as she continues her cancer treatment, apologizing for missing a crucial rehearsal for Trooping the Colour.
In her letter to the Irish Guards, who are presenting their colors to the King this year, the Princess of Wales expressed her deep pride in the regiment. She wrote, "I wanted to let you know how proud I am of the entire regiment ahead of the Colonel's Review and Trooping the Colour. I appreciate everyone trooping this year has been practicing for months and dedicating many hours to ensuring their uniforms and drill are immaculate.
Being your Colonel remains a great honor, and I am very sorry that I am unable to take the salute at this year's Colonel's Review. Please pass my apologies to the whole regiment. However, I do hope that I am able to represent you all once again very soon."
Insiders have emphasized that every cancer journey is unique and that speculation over Kate's attendance at key events such as Trooping the Colour creates unnecessary pressure. At this time, she has requested space and privacy. Consequently, the Princess of Wales will miss what would have been her first Colonel's Review, initially scheduled for today.
This event is a dress rehearsal for Trooping the Colour and would have seen her take the salute as the new Colonel-in-Chief of the Irish Guards. The Colonel's Review precedes the King’s official birthday celebrations on Saturday, June 15th, which include the traditional Buckingham Palace balcony appearance. The Colonel's Review is identical to the King’s Birthday Parade, except that some additional mounted officers participate in the latter.
The Irish Guards responded to the Princess's letter on Twitter, writing, "The Irish Guards were deeply touched to receive a letter from our Colonel, Her Royal Highness the Princess of Wales, this morning. We continue to wish Her Royal Highness well in her recovery and send her our very best wishes."
Meanwhile, Buckingham Palace confirmed last week the Daily Exclusive story from March that King Charles plans to attend Trooping the Colour and review the soldiers from a carriage on doctor's advice, accompanied by Queen Camilla.
