Doubts have been voiced regarding the authenticity of the first image of the Duchess of Wales shared post her stomach operation. The picture was circulated on social media by Kensington Palace. Reportedly, it exhibited the Duchess alongside her offspring, snapped by the Duke of Wales earlier in the week in Windsor, to commemorate Mother’s Day.
The Duchess expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the continuous support and well wishes in a post mentioning, “Thanks for the ongoing support and good wishes during the past two months. Happy Mother’s Day to all. C.” The photograph showcases her embracing Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, each seated on one side, while Prince George stands positioned behind them. They all are shown grinning for the camera.
Although the photograph was initially made available to the press on a Sunday, it was later retracted by global agencies on the same day due to rising doubts about potential tampering. Speculation sparked around changes possibly made to Princess Charlotte’s cardigan’s left sleeve along with other parts of the image. The Palace of Kensington has chosen to refrain from any comments.
The ambiguity of the photograph might add fuel to the internet rumours circling the Duchess, post her surgery. The image marks the Duchess’ first appearance after her planned surgical procedure at the London Clinic, a private healthcare centre, on January 16th where she was admitted for treatment.
The Duke of Wales, aged 75, made a visit to his daughter-in-law, Kate, on the 11th day of her stay, on January 26th, subsequent to his own admission. The Duchess was reportedly visited by her spouse, William, as well. Kate was discharged from the clinic almost a fortnight later, on January 29th, and she then retreated to Adelaide Cottage located in Windsor.
The Palace has not revealed any information regarding Kate’s health condition, but initially communicated that it wasn’t cancer and that the future queen, aged 42, intended to keep her medical information confidential. The last time she was publicly seen was on a Christmas Day stroll in Sandringham, Norfolk.
Kate’s return to her official duties is not likely before Easter. Meanwhile, William, 41, momentarily stepped back from his royal responsibilities to balance looking after his family. He resumed his public commitments in the early days of February, after Kate’s medical procedure.