Bollywood actress Manisha Koirala received a thoughtful response from Princess Kate Middleton after reaching out about their respective cancer battles.
“I wanted to reach out to HRH The Princess of Wales to send my good wishes, particularly due to my own experiences,” Koirala, 54, told a Nepalese publication, according to a translation shared by Hello! Magazine on Tuesday, October 29. “I am deeply heartened to receive such a warm response from her and wish her the very best of health.”
The actress, who has gained notoriety in Bollywood, was diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer in 2012 and has since received treatment. Koirala recently traveled to London to visit cancer patients at Ovacome, an ovarian cancer charity.
“I want to use my voice to not only support cancer patients but also to raise awareness about the need for equitable healthcare access and the importance of knowing the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer,” Koirala’s statement continued. “Having faced cancer myself, I know how isolating and challenging the journey can be, and I believe it is essential that we all play a part in changing that reality for others.”
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Ovacome’s official social media accounts shared video footage of Koirala entering the charity’s offices. Two members were able to share their experiences with the actress.
“We spoke about the work we do to support those affected by ovarian cancer as well as our goal to reduce health inequalities,” the Ovacome statement continued, noting that Koirala released a book about her cancer journey titled Healed.
Details of what was said between Kate, 42, and Koirala remain unclear, but the Princess of Wales did respond to the actress’ sweet message.
Kate announced earlier this year that she was undergoing a course of chemotherapy after being diagnosed with an undisclosed type of cancer. The Royal family member has since announced that she finished her treatment but was still on a “long” road to recovery.
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“I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment,” she shared in an emotional home video shared in September. “The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown.”
Kate told royal watchers that she’s doing everything “to stay cancer free” while remaining positive.
“I am however looking forward to being back at work and undertaking a few more public engagements in the coming months when I can,” she said. “Despite all that has gone before I enter this new phase of recovery with a renewed sense of hope and appreciation of life.”
