Kate Middleton has spent most of the year out of the public eye as she has been receiving treatment for cancer diagnosed during a “planned” abdominal surgery that took place in January. But according to what one royal expert says, behind the scenes things are far more difficult than Kate and Prince William have been letting on. At this point, it sounds like she may have been sick for longer than anyone realized before she shared her diagnosis with the world.

Kate has made a few public appearances recently.

Most recently, Will and Kate both appeared in a video to congratulate British Olympians on their participation in the 2024 games, but according to what one royal insider told The Daily Mail‘s correspondent Rebecca English, people shouldn’t take it as a sign that she’s about to return to work.

“We are not there yet. When we last heard from her ahead of Trooping the Colour, she said her treatment was going on into the summer and that’s what’s happening,” the source said.

The insider said it’s been a ‘really difficult year’ for Kate’s family.

Even though Kate is looking healthy and happy these days, she’s not “out of the woods” yet.

Kate has reportedly been sick for a longer time than people think.

One source told the news outlet that Kate had been battling health issues privately for a while — hence the operation back in January — so it may end up taking longer for her to recover than some may assume.

“She’s an incredibly strong woman, but she really has been through the wars,” the person said. “Her treatment and recovery is still a priority and will be ongoing for some time to come.”

Returning to work will look more like a ‘slow build’ for Kate.

Rebecca reported that even though Kate may appear at big, national events, she will likely choose to sit out most royal engagements as she continues to recover. But she did note that things are “moving in the right direction” for her, which is certainly good news.

Now, Will and Kate are enjoying time with their children.

Another source claims they’re having a great summer with George, Charlotte, and Louis, making the most of this time together.

“They made a clear and conscious decision to take time out as a family this summer,” the insider shared. “Seeing them both looking so happy and relaxed with each other and so comfortable in each other’s company tells you a lot about where they are.”