Kate Middleton has taken a significant step in her return to full Royal duties, joining Prince William on a visit to King Charles and Camilla at Crathie Kirk near Balmoral.

The couple’s trip to the Scottish Royal retreat was somewhat of a revelation, as Kate, 42, had recently completed her chemotherapy treatment, according to a seasoned Royal commentator. The move shows her and William’s dedication to Charles, who is also undergoing cancer treatment.

“I must admit, I was quite surprised to see William and Catherine back up in Balmoral so soon,” said veteran former BBC Royal correspondent Jennie Bond. “We don’t know whether they had the children with them, but their visit underlines how important they feel it is to spend time with Charles. It’s been a few weeks since they’ve been together and I’m sure William in particular feels he wants to stay in close touch with his papa particularly as the King continues his cancer treatment.”

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This close bond between father and son is not surprising, as their shared battle with cancer has undoubtedly deepened their connection. Charles, who has fought the disease alongside Kate, cherishes his relationship with his “darling daughter-in-law”, providing an emotional support network within the family during these challenging times, reports the Mirror.

NORFOLK, UNITED KINGDOM - JULY 05: Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge visit to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King's Lynn as part of the NHS birthday celebrations on July 5, 2020 in Norfolk, England. Sunday marks the 72nd anniversary of the formation of the National Health Service (NHS). The UK has hailed its NHS for the work they have done during the Covid-19 pandemic. (Photo by Joe Giddens - WPA Pool/Getty Images)
(Image: Getty Images)

Jennie told OK!: “Catherine and Charles share a truly special bond, undoubtedly strengthened by their shared experience with cancer. So, it’s not so much Scotland’s enchanting allure that drew them this time, but rather her and William’s desire to spend quality time with the King.”

“Hopefully, the kids were also present, which would have brought immense joy to Charles and Camilla.”

Jennie further notes Catherine’s steady recovery as she gradually resumes her Royal duties.

“Of course, travelling as a Royal is far easier than for an average person, but nonetheless, it requires some effort to relocate for a weekend visit and to be in the public eye as they were during the drive to church. It was heartening to see her there once again.”

The visit came alongside positive news about Kate’s health, following her candid admission that her battle with cancer was “incredibly tough” and forced the family to “to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown”.

LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 15: Princess Charlotte of Wales, Catherine, Princess of Wales and King Charles III on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during Trooping the Colour on June 15, 2024 in London, England. Trooping the Colour is a ceremonial parade celebrating the official birthday of the British Monarch. The event features over 1,400 soldiers and officers, accompanied by 200 horses. More than 400 musicians from ten different bands and Corps of Drums march and perform in perfect harmony. (Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage)
(Image: 2024 Karwai Tang)

Kate has been open about her ongoing journey to remain cancer-free, stating: “Although I have finished chemotherapy, my path to healing and full recovery is long and I must continue to take each day as it comes. I am, however, looking forward to being back at work and undertaking a few more public engagements in the coming months when I can.”

The princess is now turning her attention to future endeavours, with reports suggesting she’s been attending meetings at Windsor Castle. These discussions are centred around her dedication to early years development and the organisation of her annual Christmas carol service.

Kate Middleton in purple dress LONDON, ENGLAND - JULY 14: Catherine Princess of Wales during day fourteen of The Championships Wimbledon 2024 at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 14, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Rob Newell - CameraSport via Getty Images)
(Image: CameraSport via Getty Images)

This upcoming event, traditionally held at Westminster Abbey, will be its fourth year running. It carries a special significance given the trials faced by the princess and her family in the past year.