Catherine, Princess of Wales dropped out of a planned engagement at Royal Ascot at short notice on Wednesday. Kate, 43, had been expected to join her husband Prince William as well as King Charles and Queen Camilla at the horse racing event. Racegoers were hoping to see the popular royal during the traditional carriage procession at the racecourse.

LONDON (AP) — The Princess of Wales canceled plans to attend Royal Ascot on Wednesday as she continues to balance the demands of her public duties against the realities of her recovery from cancer.

Princess Kate Middleton has spoken out for the first time since her last-minute absence from the Royal Ascot. The Princess of Wales, 43, released a touching statement about Children's Hospice Week two days after her missed appearance at the annual horse race.