Last year, Kate Middleton was hospitalized for abdominal surgery and subsequently diagnosed with cancer, leading to an intense chemotherapy treatment that she completed successfully in September. Given the circumstances, this week’s celebrations will hold extra significance for her and her family. However, the timing has necessitated a significant Royal adjustment.
Jan. 9 also marks the funeral of former president Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 on December 29, 2024. King Charles has chosen to send his youngest brother, Prince Edward, to represent the UK at the service held at the Washington National Cathedral, a decision that has sparked some controversy.
This marks only the third time a Royal has attended the funeral of an American president, with Charles attending both previous times as the Prince of Wales for Ronald Reagan in 2004 and George Bush Sr. in 2018. It was anticipated that Prince William, now holding the same Royal rank, would travel to Washington for the service honoring the 39th president.
However, he reportedly insisted on being with his wife on her special day, ensuring it remains a family affair.Edward is set to make an appearance at the service, although his wife Duchess Sophie won’t be joining him. There will also be a gathering of all five living presidents – Bill Clinton, George W Bush, Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and Donald Trump in attendance to pay their respects.
William, on the other hand, has plans to treat Kate like royalty for her birthday on Thursday, says Royal commentator Jennie Bond. While they’ll celebrate behind closed doors, Bond predicts that William will pull out all the stops for his cherished spouse.
Speaking to OK! magazine, Jennie spilled some details: “This birthday is going to be memorable in so many ways – it will mark the start of a new and hopefully happier year and the end of one that has been brutal for the whole family.”
