After news broke in January that the Princess of Wales (formerly known as Kate Middleton) had abdominal surgery that required a lengthy hospital stay, many royal watchers speculated about her health. And that only intensified when she was not in public for months. Some of what was printed and spread on the internet about the princess was downright cruel, leading Kate to make a major announcement about what was really going on.

On March 22, the Princess of Wales revealed to the world her cancer diagnosis and that she was undergoing preventive chemotherapy.

In her video message, she said: “I underwent major abdominal surgery in London, and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous … However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present. My medical team, therefore, advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy … It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment … My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to being back when I am able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery.”

Kate Middleton shown on a TV screen while announcing her cancer diagnosis | Leon Neal/Getty Images

Ever since then, fans have wondered when Kate will return to her royal duties.

Kate hasn’t made many public appearances since she revealed her cancer diagnosis

Following her announcement the princess has made two public appearances at major events and one video message on social media.

In June, she attended King Charles’ birthday parade, Trooping the Colour. Kate traveled with her three children by carriage to Buckingham Palace and stood on the balcony smiling alongside other working royals. The next month, Kate delighted fans when she showed up at the Wimbledon Men’s Final with her daughter, Princess Charlotte, and sister, Pippa Middleton. Then, on Aug. 11, the Princess of Wales made a surprise appearance with her husband congratulating Team Great Britain for a job well done at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Now rumors are swirling that Kate is ready and able to return to her duties very soon. But a well-placed source has insisted that’s not the case.

Report that the princess is ready to return to royal duties is false

Kate Middleton views floral tributes to Queen Elizabeth II left at the entrance to Sandringham House | Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images