The Princess of Wales has shut down the rumor mill. In a prerecorded video message released Friday, Kate Middleton revealed she has been diagnosed with cancer, which she called “a huge shock,” and is receiving “preventive chemotherapy.” Like her father-in-law, King Charles III, Kate did not disclose the type of cancer, but she said it was discovered in post-operative tests that followed “major abdominal surgery” in January. The announcement comes after what Kate described as “an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family.”

The limited information up until this point, coupled with the doctored photo of Kate and her children led to weeks of conspiracy theories, wild rumors about her health and well-being, and an investigation into an alleged breach to try to access her medical records. One thing that still rings true: The Kensington Palace comms team did little to control the frenzy. Now, speaking on her condition for the first time, Kate reiterated what she told George, Charlotte, and Louis: “I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal.” And she asked for “time, space, and privacy,” as she continues treatment and focuses on “making a full recovery.” The hysteria around Kate the past couple of months and the somber reality of what was going on behind the scenes has been a reminder to many that our fascination with royal women should not strip them of their agency to tell their own stories — on their own terms.