For the Princess of Wales, 2024 was a year of uncertainty, absence, and above all else private courage – with the future queen enduring a battle with cancer.

Now, more than a year after her treatment for the illness began, we are starting to see the return of the old Princess, with Catherine starting to once again return to the public eye, putting the horrendous health scare behind her.

The Princess of Wales at heart of Trooping the Colour

On Saturday we saw a striking example of this at Trooping The Colour. The annual parade took place to mark the official birthday of Catherine’s father-in-law. King Charles III, with a parade full of pomp and ceremony down The Mall

Riding through the gates of Buckingham Palace with her three children beside her, Catherine was all smiles, waving to the crowd in a radiant show of defiance. This was a lot more than just any royal engagement. It was a statement.

After accompanying her family to Horse Guards Parade, the princess took her place on the Buckingham Palace balcony with the same poise and sense of duty that has become her hallmark. But this was no ordinary royal turnout. It marked her return to the heart of public life following her deeply personal and courageous battle with cancer.

In a monarchy built on symbolism, Catherine’s presence at Trooping The Colour was both deeply moving and deeply significant. Last year, her absence from key events was keenly felt. At times, the Royal Family looked visibly diminished without one of its most dependable and beloved figures. Her illness came as a shock not only to the public but to an institution that has come to rely heavily on her steady hand and modern touch.

Bright summer ahead

Now, with summer 2025 stretching ahead, there’s a palpable sense of optimism. This is shaping up to be Catherine’s season – a summer of re-emergence and renewed purpose. A season of elegance and fashion, with Her Royal Highness set to be front and centre in the minds of the public and the press.

In the coming days we can expect to see Her Royal Highness at Royal Ascot, taking part in the world famous carriage procession alongside her family. Wimbledon is also on the horizon, an event where the Princess of Wales shines not just as a patron, but as a lifelong tennis fan and sporting ambassador.

The months of absence have only heightened public appreciation for the Princess of Wales. Catherine’s dedication to early years development, mental health advocacy, and her support for the Armed Forces has always been sincere and sustained. In an age of short attention spans and fleeting celebrity, her long-term commitment to real causes is more valuable than ever.

It is also important to remember that this reappearance does not mean a full-time return to public duties. Kensington Palace has always maintained the very clear position that Catherine will not be attending events unless she feels well enough to do so.

Still, her presence has the power to lift the mood of the nation. Trooping the Colour showed us that. In an era when the monarchy is under increasing scrutiny, the popularity and relatability of the Princess of Wales are assets the Royal Family cannot afford to take for granted.

So yes, the summer of 2025 feels like Catherine’s summer. Not because she will be on show every day – but because the Princess of Wales has shown us something far greater. Strength. Patience. Dignity. Hope.

We missed her in 2024, and will cherish her in 2025.