Kate Middleton makes a surprise appearance alongside Prince William as they visit the families of Southport stabbing victims

Royal fans – and fashion fans – were delighted to see Kate Middleton yesterday at her first public event since announcing the end of her chemotherapy treatment. Princess Kate, as she is increasingly known in the press due to her title of “Princess of Wales”, traveled with Prince William to meet with the bereaved families of the Southport stabbing victims and then with the first responders to the horrific scene meet.

William’s visit had been planned for a long time, but the appearance with Kate at his side was a surprise. However, the nature of the tragedy, involving children and suffering the mental health of survivors and responders, fits with Kate’s intended focus on meaningful work as she advances her recovery.

Kate made it clear in her September 9 announcement that she had completed chemotherapy – a video of summer images with her husband and children, dubbed by the princess – that her focus would be on recovery and family first, and then on the work that moves them. “My focus now is on doing what I can to stay cancer-free,” she said in the film. “My road to healing and full recovery is a long one and I have to take each day as it comes. However, I’m looking forward to getting back to work and taking on a few more public engagements when I can in the coming months.” She added that she is “entering this new phase of recovery with a renewed sense of hope and appreciation of life” begins.

The Southport stabbings have undoubtedly deeply affected 42-year-old mother-of-three Kate, who was recently nicknamed by fans as “the children’s princess”, a personalized twist on her late mother-in-law’s popular “People’s Princess” title. The violent attack devastated Britain as the attacker attacked a Taylor Swift dance class full of young girls; Three were killed, another eight and two adults were seriously injured. Kate and William first spent time privately with the victim’s families and then met with first responders to learn how they were dealing with the unbearable trauma of that day.

From that day on, as the couple met with health and police services, Kate conveyed the families’ feelings. “I cannot underestimate how grateful you all are for the support you provided that day. On her behalf, thank you very much.”

Both Kate and William expressed concern for first responders. “For you to witness this, you have to support yourself,” Kate said. William added some advice from the heir to the throne that her bosses will find difficult to ignore: “Please take your time, don’t rush back to work, do whatever you have to do, talk about it, give your boss a chance. “It’s a hard time when you’re not given the time to relax because it’s so important to have those moments.” As the couple was about to leave, Kate turned back to hug the first responders with them she had just spoken, as moved as she was when they talked about their experiences.

The couple was dressed in very fall-appropriate burgundy tones, which is notable because it is the color of compassion. Kate looked amazing in a slim-fitting burgundy trench coat by Alexander McQueen and a burgundy polka dot dress by Whistles that peaked at the lapels. William – still sporting the scraggly beard – wore a smart, casual blazer and trousers, as well as a burgundy jumper that matched his wife. The couple also wore brown suede shoes. Royal jewelry watchers noted that Kate chose to wear her new eternity ring from William instead of her famous sapphire engagement ring.

This was not a fashion event, dark and difficult as it was. But the fact that they signaled unity and compassion was remarkable. Kate must no doubt be aware that all eyes are on her as she is so rare and the public is concerned about her health. She made the right choice with this outfit to wear again: elegantly and completely appropriately dressed, radiant at her husband’s side, perfect for the season and a sign of reassurance and continuity.

The choice of event also shows that Kate will put her energy into the things that are important to her. She met privately last month with 16-year-old Liz Hatton, who is battling a rare cancer and is pursuing her dreams of photography (a passion Kate shares). She also privately attended a screening of Giselle from the English National Ballet in Sadler Wells and subsequently sent her congratulations to the artists. It is hoped that in the future she will attend Sunday’s memorial services and host her annual Christmas concert.

The palace has made it clear that the Princess of Wales will return to work in a slow and measured manner. Kate herself announces that she wants to put her energy into causes that are personally meaningful to her and that further the progression of her chosen areas of work. With her selectivity, she also exemplifies another great lesson for all of us.

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