The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, recently shared a deeply personal coping mechanism she employed during her cancer treatment. Speaking to patients at the Christie cancer care hospital in Manchester, she revealed that the chemotherapy left her unable to read or concentrate, a common side effect often referred to as "chemo fog" or "chemo brain." Instead, she found solace in coloring, describing it as a way to explore without the pressure of a finished product.
"I don’t know about you, but I didn’t have the ability to read or really focus on anything," she told the patients, as captured in a video shared on social media. "[Coloring] was my way of exploring interesting things and being able to do something that did not require an end product, or an end finished piece. [It was] just a way of playing and losing yourself."
Cognitive changes during chemotherapy are well-documented. According to the Mayo Clinic, "chemo brain" can include memory lapses, trouble concentrating, and difficulty multitasking. The exact causes are not fully understood, but factors may include the chemicals from treatment, the cancer itself, stress, pain, and sleep issues. For many patients, finding low-pressure activities like coloring can help manage these symptoms.
Kate Middleton announced her cancer diagnosis in January 2024, following a planned abdominal surgery. She completed a course of preventive chemotherapy in September 2024, and in January 2025, she declared herself in remission. Since then, she has gradually returned to public duties, including visits to healthcare facilities and charitable engagements.
The Princess’s love for art is well-known. She studied art history at the University of St Andrews, where she met Prince William. In 2016, Prince William revealed that his wife enjoyed adult coloring books, specifically Johanna Basford’s Secret Garden. Basford later recounted that the prince told her "his wife likes to color in Secret Garden." The following year, a Kate-themed coloring book was even available at Kensington Palace.
Kate’s interest extends beyond personal enjoyment. She has actively promoted the importance of creative play in child development through her Shaping Us initiative, run by The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood. She has shared portraits drawn by her children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—to illustrate how art fosters connection and emotional skills. "Drawing portraits with children can provide a moment of connection as you spend time looking at and focusing on one another, as well as being creative and – most importantly – having lots of fun together!" she wrote in a social media post.
During a visit to the National Federation of Women’s Institutes last fall, she emphasized how "making and crafting" helps build community. She mentioned that her children spent the summer "crafting in every corner of the house." This focus on creative expression aligns with her belief that the skills developed in early childhood shape how we manage emotions, communicate, and explore the world.
Kate’s openness about her chemotherapy experience has resonated with many cancer patients. At the Christie hospital, she listened to their stories and offered encouragement. The hospital is a leading center for cancer care, and the Princess has supported its work for years. Her visit underscored the importance of holistic care that addresses not just the physical but also the emotional and cognitive challenges of treatment.
Coloring, once seen as a children’s activity, has gained popularity among adults as a form of therapy. Art therapists often recommend it to reduce stress and improve focus. For Kate, it served as a practical tool during a difficult period. "[It was] my way of exploring interesting things and being able to do something that did not require an end product," she repeated.
The Princess of Wales continues to balance her royal duties with her role as a mother. She has been seen at various engagements, including visits to community hubs supporting Ukrainian refugees. At one such visit, she painted with her hands alongside children, demonstrating art’s power to transcend language and trauma.
Cognitive dysfunction during chemotherapy affects many, but Kate’s candor helps destigmatize the issue. By sharing her personal strategy, she offers hope and practical advice to others undergoing similar struggles. Her journey from diagnosis to remission has been public, yet she maintains a level of privacy that allows her to connect authentically with those she meets.
The royal family has a long history of patronizing arts and health charities. Kate’s advocacy for early childhood development and art therapy builds on that legacy. She has commissioned research and visited centers to highlight how creative play supports emotional regulation. The portraits by her children were shared as part of Shaping Us, which outlines social and emotional skills that start developing in infancy.
Coloring books for adults have seen a resurgence since the early 2010s, with titles like Secret Garden selling millions worldwide. Basford’s intricate designs have been embraced by celebrities and everyday people alike. Prince William’s casual mention of his wife’s hobby brought further attention to the trend. It also revealed a relatable side of the royal family.
Kate’s own artistic talents are occasionally visible. She has been photographed painting and drawing with children, and her handwriting is often noted for its elegance. But she rarely seeks the spotlight for her skills. Instead, she uses them to connect and to champion causes she believes in.
Chemotherapy side effects vary per individual. The Princess’s willingness to discuss "chemo brain" helps normalize a condition that many suffer in silence. The Mayo Clinic notes that while some patients recover quickly after treatment, others may experience lingering effects. Strategies such as mental exercises, stress management, and creative activities like coloring can help.
Kate’s return to public life has been gradual. She attended the Festival of Remembrance in November 2024 and has since appeared at several engagements. Her visit to the Christie hospital was part of her ongoing support for the NHS and cancer charities. She met with patients receiving treatment and with staff who provide care around the clock.
The Princess also highlighted the importance of community support. During her own treatment, she relied on family and friends. Now, she channels that experience into empathy for others. "It’s so important to find something that takes your mind off it," she told the patients. "Even if it’s just for a few minutes."
Art therapy is increasingly recognized as a valuable component of cancer care. Hospitals and support groups offer coloring sessions to help patients manage anxiety and maintain a sense of normalcy. The simple act of coloring can provide a meditative focus, similar to mindfulness.
Kate’s educational background in art history likely influenced her appreciation for visual expression. She graduated with a 2:1 degree in 2005 and later worked part-time as an accessories buyer for the clothing chain Jigsaw before her engagement. Her interest in art has remained a constant thread in her public life.
The Princess of Wales is also known for her sense of duty. She has undertaken royal engagements since marrying Prince William in 2011. Her work with charities focusing on addiction, mental health, and early childhood development reflects her personal passions. The Shaping Us initiative was launched in 2023 to raise awareness of the importance of the first five years of life.
In her remarks at the Christie, Kate tied her own experience to broader themes of play and creativity. "It’s a way of playing and losing yourself," she said, echoing the language she uses in her early years work. Play, she often argues, is not just for children; it can be a therapeutic tool for people of all ages.
As she continues her recovery, the Princess remains a role model for many. Her openness about the challenges of cancer treatment—including the struggle to focus—adds a human dimension to her public persona. Coloring, a simple and accessible activity, became her refuge. And by sharing that, she encourages others to find their own small comforts.
Source: MSN News