Catherine, the Princess of Wales was a supporter of cancer charities and causes long before she was diagnosed with the illness.
It has now been confirmed Kate once donated some of her hair to a children’s cancer charity in 2017.
The mother-of-three was getting her hair cut at Kensington Palace when she came up with the idea to donate some hair to Little Princess Trust, a charity that provides real hair wigs — free of charge — to children and young people who have lost their own hair through cancer.
A source told The Sun Kate’s hairdresser, Joey Wheeler, had told the royal it was time for a decent trim.
“Joey persuaded her it was time to take off some of her hair, he said it was just getting too long,” the source said.
“While Joey was snipping away the idea came to her of doing some good with it rather than throwing it away.
“She mentioned it to Joey, who thought it was a brilliant idea.
The trust said it was a “complete surprise” when it later learned Kate had donated the hair.
Little Princess Trust confirmed to 7NEWS.com. au the Princess of Wales, who at that stage was The Duchess of Cambridge, had donated her hair to their charity.
“As per the request from Buckingham Palace to respect the privacy of the Princess of Wales while she undergoes treatment for her illness, The Little Princess Trust is not issuing any statements at this time,” it said.
“However, we can confirm the media reports from 2017 stating that the Princess donated her hair to us were correct.”
Little Princess Trust spokesperson Helen Creese said the organisation had been “delighted” by Kate’s thoughtful gesture.
“We’re all absolutely delighted that she donated her hair, and we’re very grateful as well — just as we’re grateful to everyone who chooses to support the charity in this way, and so many people do,” she said.
Creese added the charity often received anonymous donations.
“It’s such a selfless act anyway to donate your hair to help a sick child or young adult,” she said.
The Princess of Wales recent revealed she was undergoing cancer treatment after weeks of wild speculation on her whereabouts and health.
In an emotional video, Kate said she had initially shown no signs of cancer after planned abdominal surgery in January but subsequent tests revealed cancer had been “present”.
“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,” she said.
“At this time I am also thinking of all those lives affected by cancer.
“For everyone facing this disease in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope.
“You are not alone.”
