Loose Women star’s eight-word verdict on Princess Kate after meeting her
Loose Women panellist Dame Kelly Holmes has shared her opinion after meeting and working with Catherine, Princess of Wales in person. Loose Women’s Kelly Holmes – a former gold-medal winning Olympic athlete – has given her verdict about Princess Kate following her devastating cancer diagnosis last Friday. Branding her “genuinely interested” in everyone she meets, the 53-year-old shared what it was like to work with her at charity events.
“She was down to earth and interested in the people – when we were chatting, she was asking questions in more detail – and she was easy-going,” Kelly explained. She added during a chat with OK! magazine that her commitment to charity goes far beyond merely making an appearance, vowing: “She isn’t just there as a photo opportunity.” She speaks from experience, as Kate has personally gotten involved with her charity, Dame Kelly Holmes Trust, in the past. The organisation transforms disadvantaged young people’s lives by teaming them up with retired “world class” athletes who can help them to make the most of their potential.
Kelly’s aim in founding the charity was that the athletes could help struggling people to develop “winning mindsets” that transcend self-esteem issues, self-limiting beliefs or challenges they may have in their backgrounds. Princess Kate is renowned for her competitive streak, although she failed to hit the target when she and Kelly went head-to-head, alongside others, for a playful game of bean-bag noughts and crosses. The challenge took place last year in Bath, when she and Kelly were visiting sporty children being mentored by Paralympic gold medallist Liz Johnson. Kate also took part in an event Kelly’s charity organised in honour of Mental Health Awareness Week.
Sadly, Kate’s charity commitments have had to take a back seat for the time being, as she’s been diagnosed with cancer. She released a video statement on Friday reassuring the public that she “is going to be okay” after undergoing a “preventative chemotherapy” treatment. Cancerous cells were discovered after Kate underwent abdominal surgery earlier this year, despite medics for the Princess initially believing that cancer was not present. However, her uplifting video message confirmed that she had started her journey to recovery and was “getting stronger every day”.
She elaborated: “I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirit. “Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance… as is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both.”
Kate also added: “My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to being back when I am able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery. “At this time, I am also thinking of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer. For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone.”
