The Prince of Wales has shared a heartfelt message to his wife, Kate, on her 43rd birthday, calling her the “most incredible wife and mother.” He praised her for her strength throughout a challenging year, especially after her cancer diagnosis.

The personal message was posted on their official social media profiles, with the prince signing off with a “W.”

Along with the message, a new, unseen black-and-white photo of Kate was shared, taken by Matt Porteous in Windsor last summer. In the picture, Kate, wearing a gingham scarf, smiles while casually resting her hands in her jean pockets.

William’s message read: “To the most incredible wife and mother. The strength you’ve shown over the last year has been remarkable. George, Charlotte, Louis and I are so proud of you. Happy Birthday, Catherine. We love you. W”

The royal family also posted a birthday tribute on the monarchy’s official social media, saying, “Happy Birthday to The Princess of Wales!” with a birthday cake emoji. The post was paired with a photo of Kate smiling as she received flowers from wellwishers at a church service in Sandringham on Christmas Day.

Kate is reportedly spending her birthday quietly at home with William. Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis will attend school during the day before the family gathers for a celebration in the evening.

In 2024, Kate underwent abdominal surgery and was later diagnosed with cancer, leading to chemotherapy treatment. Next week marks one year since her surgery.

William has previously called the past year “brutal” and likely “the hardest year” of his life, especially with his father, the King, also battling cancer.

Over the past year, Kate has shared moving updates about her cancer journey, despite facing online conspiracies regarding her health and whereabouts after her surgery. In September, she confirmed completing her treatment and spoke about the incredibly tough time her family had been through in a deeply personal video.

She said, “The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family” and added, “The cancer journey is complex, scary, and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you.”

Kate’s birthday coincides with the state funeral of former US president Jimmy Carter, but William has stayed home with her, while his uncle, the Duke of Edinburgh, is in Washington, DC, to represent Charles.