As Prince William communicated with the world about the struggles his family experienced in 2024, he has described that year as the “most challenging” of his life. This period was marked by his wife, Kate Middleton’s, cancer diagnosis, and his father, King Charles III’s, own health struggles. The Duke of Cambridge approached his personal trials with sincerity and open vulnerability. He was a fierce advocate for protecting their three children from constant media attention while getting them the help they required.
The pre-written togetherness of family life has proven especially crucial at this frenetic crossroad. Prince William noted that Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis all deal with their mother’s diagnosis differently. He underscored their disparate approaches to this tricky predicament. He expressed pride in how they have handled the situation, stating, “I’m so proud of my wife and my father for how they’ve handled all of last year. My children have managed brilliantly as well.”
Prince George, 12, goes to the Lambrook School in Berkshire. His older brother and sister, 10-year-old Prince George and 8-year-old Princess Charlotte, are in attendance. The school is conveniently located near their home on the grounds of Windsor Castle, allowing Prince William and Kate to be actively involved in their children’s daily lives. To this day, the couple continues to prioritize planning their schedules around school events and family activities.
“It’s important my family feel protected and have the space to process a lot of the stuff that’s gone on last year, and that was tricky trying to do that and keep doing the job.” – Prince William
In order to protect his family from the constant media attention, Prince William was forced to make drastic measures to keep their lives private. He admitted it was hard to strike a balance between keeping his kids and dad safe. Simultaneously, he wanted to do his part as a royal. He recognized that not every family member responds to stress and adversity in the same way, or copes the same way.
“Everyone has their own coping mechanisms for these sorts of things, and children are constantly learning and adapting.” – Prince William
Prince William has spoken about prioritizing open dialogue as a family too. together, talking about what they’re feeling — and Chris says this is essential to creating a safe space. He stated, “We’re a very open family, so we talk about things that bother us, and things that trouble us,” adding that it is crucial to reassure the children that everything is okay.
Reflecting on his own experience, he shared, “Life is sent to test us as well, and it definitely can be challenging at times, and being able to overcome that is what makes us who we are.” His outlook reflects a wider recognition that true resilience is built by weathering storms as a community.
Additionally, Prince William articulated what he wants the royal family to look and act like moving forward. He made clear his appetite for reform, even as he forms a vision for Britain when he one day ascends the throne.
“I think it’s safe to say that change is on my agenda. Change for good, and I embrace that, and I enjoy that change. I don’t fear it.” – Prince William
As Prince George matures, William wants to teach him a mindset of flexibility and resilience. In response to these struggles, George pours his energy into his love of football and hockey. He needs to learn how to wield the power that comes with his royal bloodline.
