As Queen Elizabeth II once famously described 1992 as an annus horribilis—marked by multiple royal divorces and the near destruction of Windsor Castle—Prince William’s 2024 may be shaping up to be similarly challenging.

With a loved one battling a serious illness, the heir to the British throne finds himself navigating an exceptionally difficult period.

The year has been particularly tough for Prince William, who is providing steadfast support to his wife, Princess Catherine, as she faces an unprecedented and severe health crisis.

This personal struggle for the Princess of Wales comes amid a turbulent period for the royal family, which has been further complicated by his father, King Charles III’s, own cancer treatment.

In a poignant display of commitment and support, Prince William has been by Princess Catherine’s side throughout her battle. When he proposed to Catherine during a romantic trip to Kenya, he made a vow to her parents, Carol and Michael Middleton, to take care of her. His current dedication underscores the depth of this promise, with William reportedly willing to go to any lengths to support his wife and their family.

The royal family’s openness about Catherine’s diagnosis has resonated deeply with many around the world, shedding light on the harsh realities of facing cancer. “My darling Catherine,” William said in a heartfelt statement released by Kensington Palace. “From the moment we heard the news, I have been by your side. Your courage, strength, and unwavering spirit have been nothing short of inspiring.”

The weight of this year’s challenges was starkly illustrated during a recent royal event. Prince William was scheduled to deliver a reading at the church service for his late godfather, King Constantine of Greece. Despite being prominently listed on the order of service, William withdrew from the event at the last moment. The unexpected absence, coupled with the presence of Queen Camilla and Prince Andrew, led to speculation and raised eyebrows among royal watchers.

It was later revealed that William’s withdrawal was due to Catherine’s recent cancer diagnosis, which was still confidential at the time. The emotional and logistical strain of balancing royal duties with personal crises was evident as he remained by his wife’s side during this tumultuous period.

Adding to the family’s challenges, the Prince and Princess of Wales recently marked their 13th wedding anniversary, sharing a special photograph from their wedding. The image sparked curiosity among fans due to a noticeable detail: Prince William was seen in a black uniform, rather than the red tunic he wore at the 2011 ceremony. This discrepancy led to widespread speculation, but the explanation is straightforward. William changed from the red tunic of the Irish Guards, a role he held as Colonel-in-Chief at the time, to the black uniform of the Blues and Royals, reflecting the change in his ceremonial duties.

As the royal family contends with these trials, the public and media are closely observing their journey. The enduring strength and unity of Prince William and Princess Catherine amidst such difficulties continue to garner admiration and empathy from across the globe. As they navigate this challenging year, the support of their family and the nation remains crucial.