Sarah, Duchess of York Opens Up About How She, Princess Kate and King Charles Stay Strong During Their Cancer Journeys

A few heartbreaking health crises are impacting the Royal Family as of late. Last November Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York was diagnosed with breast cancer. In February of this year, it was announced that King Charles was diagnosed with cancer as well. Then in March, Kate Middleton revealed she was going to undergo preventative chemotherapy for her cancer diagnosis. Despite the heartbreaking circumstances, Ferguson says they’ve been finding comfort and support in each other.

“I think the Princess of Wales was so brave with that video [in which Kate made her diagnosis public],” the 64-year-old author told HELLO! in an exclusive interview. “I think family unity is key. I love that the royal family are all supporting each other and carry on."

“I think the key is that you don’t have to be in anyone’s face—the odd note, the odd: ‘Hello, we’re all here.’ I was so impressed that the King became patron of Cancer Research UK; it’s such an amazing move,” she added.

Her children, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, also provide much love and support to their mother in these trying times. “I have the most exceptional family and an extraordinarily great team,” she said. “I have an enormous ability to turn to joy,” Ferguson said.

Following her breast cancer diagnosis, Fergie underwent a single mastectomy. After a trip to a dermatologist to have moles removed, she was also diagnosed with skin cancer.

“The Duchess wants to thank the entire medical team which has supported her, particularly her dermatologist, whose vigilance ensured the illness was detected when it was,” a rep said in a statement obtained by People. “She believes her experience underlines the importance of checking the size, shape, color and texture and emergence of new moles that can be a sign of melanoma.”