Kate Middleton and Prince William likely 'sugarcoated' cancer diagnosis for younger son Louis, the King's former butler says, but it was a little different for Prince George and Princess Charlotte
The Prince and Princess of Wales made sure to break the news in as 'positive' of a way as possible
King Charles III's former butler has shared his belief that Kate Middleton and Prince William will have 'sugarcoated' Kate's cancer diagnosis when telling Prince Louis the news, but says the conversation was likely different with older siblings Prince George and Princess Charlotte.
The news of Kate Middleton's cancer diagnosis shocked everyone, from royal experts and commentators to royal fans and the wider public. But, while everyone has been upset by the news, those closest to the Princess must be having an incredibly tough time coming to terms with her diagnosis.
The family have undoubtedly been forced to have some difficult conversations following the news, though Kate's relatives have rallied around her to offer support like her brother James Middleton who shared a sweet childhood photo of his sister to social media as he promised to stick by her throughout her recovery.
Kate broke the news to the public in a heartfelt video statement on Friday 22 March, with many speculating that she chose that date in particular as it was the day her three young children, Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, eight, and Prince Louis, five, broke up from school for their Easter break and the family would therefore be able to avoid the public on their surprise family trip without them having to miss classes.
It goes without saying that it must've been heartbreaking to tell the children of the diagnosis. But, according to King Charles III's former butler, the news was likely 'sugarcoated' for Prince Louis at least as he is still so young.
“I’m sure it was a very difficult and very different conversation between children,” Grant Harrold told The Post. “For instance, for Louis I’m sure the conversation was more sugarcoated than it was with George and Charlotte.”
But while George and Charlotte were probably told some more details, the conversations were still given a 'positive' spin to soften the blow. “The older children can understand more, so I’d imagine it was a little more frank but undoubtedly staying positive, which is so important,” Harrold added.
GoodtoKnow Newsletter
Parenting advice, hot topics, best buys and family finance tips delivered straight to your inbox.
The former butler also believes that George and Charlotte will likely step up to support their mother, which doesn't come as a shock as we know the youngsters absolutely dote on their mother and have been especially keen to be there for her throughout her recovery so far. From reports that Charlotte planned the most thoughtful spa day for her mum following her surgery to news that all three children are 'going overboard to make sure she feels comfortable,' we're sure Kate's thankful for their support.
"It brings a tear to your eye," Harrold added. "For any mother to have that conversation is huge and you can imagine Charlotte and George are going to be good supports for her.
"I’m sure the children will be handling it as any kids would be expected to handle it, but I think their parents are very good at being calm and collected, and I think that will rub off on the children.”
In other royal news, Queen Camilla has shared some hilarious insight into her grandson’s personality - but caused confusion over his name, while Prince Harry has revealed the sweet details of Queen Elizabeth’s final meeting with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. Plus Prince William is relying on this ‘stoic’ family member to support The Firm while he focuses on his family - and it’s the royal you might least expect.
Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse is a news writer for Goodtoknow, specialising in family content. She began her freelance journalism career after graduating from Nottingham Trent University with an MA in Magazine Journalism, receiving an NCTJ diploma, and earning a First Class BA (Hons) in Journalism at the British and Irish Modern Music Institute. She has also worked with BBC Good Food and The Independent.
-
Why do I crave sugar? Causes of sugar cravings and how to stop them
If you're someone who suffers from sugar cravings you'll know how hard it is to give up the sweet stuff. But you're not alone.
By Debra Waters Published
-
Low sodium diet: the benefits of reducing salt and what foods to eat
By Emily-Ann Elliott Published
-
Pippa Middleton’s key parenting choice that Prince George, Charlotte and Louis are massively benefiting from
An expert has revealed how Pippa's important decision has impacted not only her sister Kate Middleton but also her young nieces and nephews
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published
-
Kate Middleton and Prince William’s surprising tactic to keep Prince George, Charlotte and Louis off their screens
The Wales family were spotted enjoying a 'wholesome' family day out in Norfolk - and revealed their brilliant hack for entertaining the kids
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published
-
Princess Charlotte is learning how to be ‘the perfect princess and standby queen’ from this surprising relative
Prince William and Kate Middleton reportedly 'couldn't imagine a better role model' for their daughter than her current teacher
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published
-
Prince William soothes Prince George with this 'protective' parenting tactic, says Royal expert (did you spot it?)
The Prince of Wales has a 'protective' parenting style and always keeps an eye on his kids and their emotions
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published
-
Kate Middleton’s heartbreaking plea to King Charles over Prince George, Charlotte and Louis
The Princess of Wales has never been afraid to stand up for her three young children
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published
-
Prince George, Charlotte and Louis set off for holiday spot that holds Prince William’s ‘saddest memories’
As per tradition, the Wales family will head to a very poignant UK holiday destination this summer
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published
-
Princess Diana could be about to spark Prince Harry and Prince William’s reconciliation, with adorable 'saved' childhood memory
The two princes shared an incredibly close bond growing up
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published
-
Kate Middleton laid out ‘bold’ family priorities in candid conversation with Queen Elizabeth II, new book reveals
The Princess of Wales has always been clear about she plans to raise her three children
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published