Angela Terry, a lung cancer patient, tells PEOPLE that Kate's "gentle eye contact" and " level of connection " left an impression. The royal also reassured Rebecca Mendlesohn, who is in a trial for metastatic cancer, and wrapped her in an emotional embrace.

When Kate Middleton celebrated her 43rd birthday on January 9, her husband Prince William wrote a tender message and shared it on the couple’s public Instagram account. According to royal expert Ingrid Seward of Majesty magazine, the display of affection was a sign that the couple has grown closer following Kate's cancer diagnosis in early 2024.

A palace source tells People that the couple is "more open" now following Kate's battle with cancer, adding that the Prince and Princess of Wales "talk about their relationship together" and are showing a different side to their traditionally private partnership.