Prince William will be an "anchor" amid his wife's cancer treatment

Ailsa Anderson, 46, told People about how William will step up: "He is going to be the anchor for his children."

People added William - who has children Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, eight, and five-year-old Prince Louis - with Catherine, is now expected to "stagger how he works, much like he has done since Kate was admitted to the hospital for her initial operation".

Ailsa added the timing of Catherine's public announcement via video about her cancer fight revealed she and William were focused on the welfare of their kids.

She said: "They are protecting their children. They are thinking about their welfare above everything."

Catherine said in her video announcement on Friday (22.03.24) evening she underwent "major" abdominal surgery in January, and that despite the "successful" results of the procedure, tests after the operation "found cancer had been present".

The princess added her medical team advised she should undergo a course of "preventative chemotherapy", and said she is now "in the early stages of that treatment".

Catherine also noted it "has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be ok".

She added: "Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too."

Ailsa added Catherine's shock announcement will "resonate" with cancer sufferers, saying: "I would challenge anyone who saw that not to be totally moved by her. Three million in the UK live with cancer and that will resonate with them."

She also hit out at the trolls who spread wild speculation and conspiracy theories Catherine's whereabouts and health after she stepped out of the public eye following her January surgery.

Ailsa blasted: "For those people who have been vile on social media, they need to look at what they post.

"No one knows what goes on in anyone's household. All the messages I have received are of sympathy. How can you not be sympathetic?

"She's not just a senior member of the royal family, but she's also a mother of young children - she's so young. I'm sure the whole world will be with her."