Kate Middleton's uncle Gary Goldsmith will not be making a planned appearance on Celebrity Big Brother this evening amid the news that his niece is in the early stages of preventative cancer treatment.
In an emotional video posted earlier this evening, the Princess of Wales, 42, opened up about the 'huge shock' of her diagnosis while revealing that she is 'getting stronger every day'.
Speaking in the video message, the Princess said: “In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous.
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“The surgery was successful. However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present.
“My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment.
“This of course came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family. As you can imagine, this has taken time.”
The Princess of Wales added: “It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment.
“But, most importantly, 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.
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“As I have said to them; I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits.”
Now, ahead of tonight's final, a Big Brother spokesperson said: "Following today’s sad news, Gary has made the decision not to attend tonight’s Celebrity Big Brother final.
"We fully support his decision and wish him and his family well at this difficult time. We’d like to extend our thanks to Gary for joining us this series."
Gary also wrote on social media: "Following today’s news, I will not be attending tonight’s Celebrity Big Brother final. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to my fellow Housemates and to everyone involved in the making of this brilliant show. I hope you all enjoy your special night.
"As many will have seen, I am featured in Saturday's 'Times Magazine'. This interview and shoot was done over a week ago and went to print before I was aware of the sad news regarding my niece Kate.
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"My thoughts and prayers are with Kate and the wider family at this difficult time and deeply upset at the timing of this article.
"I hope this draws a line over the continued speculation and horrible conspiracies.
"Let’s give Kate, William & the children time and show some love back."
Featured Image Credit: ITV/Kensington RoyalTopics: Kate Middleton, Health, Cancer, Celebrity Big Brother