In a touching moment, Catherine Middleton embraced a young cancer-stricken photographer during her engagement at Windsor Castle on October 2, 2024, marking her first public-pictured engagement since she resumed royal duties.

Liz Hatton, 16, who is battling a rare and aggressive tumor, had her hair cut short as she battles cancer and undergoes treatment. She smiled as she took pictures with the princess and Prince William, alongside her family who accompanied her.

Liz and Catherine shared a warm hug in a photo posted online, highlighting the noticeable difference in their hair, despite both sharing something in common—their battle with cancer.

Therefore, as Princess Catherine Middleton was pictured offering support to the photographer, one comment took a different tone, saying, “A hug that says ‘look at my healthy color-treated hair’ will speak volumes. IJS 🤔.”

Many of these comments were critical and probing as a skeptical observer asked, “How did Catherine not lose any hair after chemo?” and another cynically pointed out, “How come that all the real cancer patients are without hair on their head and your hair is longer and longer?!”

One even questioned, “Why is her head so big?” Other comments on Catherine’s recent appearance were a mix of admiration for her hair and beauty.

One fan gushed, “Catherine looks stunning 😍,” while another was in awe, writing, “Kate’s hair! Wow!” Others couldn’t help but wonder, “Has kate got extensions? My goodness her hair has grown.”

Another admirer expressed, “Catherine, it’s so great to see you looking so healthy and beautiful ❤️🥹,” while a similar comment noted, “Her hair is so beautiful but more than that I’m glad to see her out and about❤️.”

Nevertheless, this appearance, which has sparked many reactions, is a rare one for Catherine as she has largely stayed out of the spotlight this year. The Palace has previously stated that it is currently uncertain whether the princess is cancer-free, even after completing her chemotherapy treatment.

Regardless, Catherine was happy to have met Liz as she and William penned in a post on Instagram, “A pleasure to meet with Liz at Windsor today. A talented young photographer whose creativity and strength has inspired us both. Thank you for sharing your photos and story with us. ❤️ W&C.”

Prince William learned about Liz through his role with the London Air Ambulance Charity. He then gave her a chance to photograph the investiture, which included cyclist Mark Cavendish and former footballer Ally McCoist.

Following the photo session, the royal couple held a private meeting with Liz and her family. Liz gushed about this meeting on her Instagram stories, “Such lovely, genuine and kind people, I’m over the moon that my family and I had this experience.”

While Catherine’s appearance and interaction with Liz were highly significant, it was clear that her hair was the focus of much online discussion. Fans have speculated whether Catherine’s hair featured extensions and their suspicions may be valid.

Lisa Richards from the NYC salon at 45 Rockefeller Plaza and founder of the RPZL team confirmed that the Princess of Wales has worn their brand’s extensions. Even so, it remains unclear when, as Catherine has never addressed this topic.

Stylists have weighed in on Catherine’s signature hair, which remains a rich brunette and is usually styled just past the shoulders with long layers and sleek waves.

This timeless look shows that a classic hairstyle can be just as glamorous, and arguably more regal than constantly changing up one’s appearance.

Spoke & Weal’s master stylist and cut director Lindsay Victoria praised the princess’s hair, “The common denominator throughout the years of Kate’s style is shiny, healthy, and full hair.”

Lauren Bailey-Chaidez, owner of Feverfew Salon in Los Angeles also chimed in, “Kate is a great example of timeless beauty. Classic cuts never go out of style. Just cause it’s simple doesn’t mean it’s boring.”

As Catherine has now resumed her royal duties, fans can expect to see more of her and her impeccable style. As we previously reported, after weeks of absence, Catherine returned to the public eye, appearing alongside William in September 2024.

The princess made her highly anticipated return to the public eye after completing chemotherapy. The 42-year-old royal was spotted attending a Sunday service at Crathie Kirk Church, located near Balmoral Castle in Scotland, which earned mixed reactions from observers.

Accompanied by William, Catherine was seen sitting in the passenger seat of their car. She offered a brief but warm smile as William dutifully drove them to the service. Dressed in her signature style, the beloved Princess of Wales looked beautiful in a dark brown Suffolk fedora decorated with feathers.

Her chic brown tartan checked coat made a graceful yet understated entrance. William, equally polished, opted for a sharp dark suit for the occasion. Also in attendance were King Charles and Queen Camilla, arriving separately in their own vehicles.

As news of Catherine’s public appearance spread, social media was flooded with reactions. Some users were perplexed. “Doesn’t look like her,” one user skeptically posted. Another chimed in, “Doesn’t look like Kate,” followed by a third writing, “Doesn’t even look like.”

Someone else recalled seeing her at Wimbledon not long ago, confidently noting, “She look very well at the Tennis a few weeks ago!! [sic]” Amidst the skepticism, Catherine received a flood of positive messages. One fan applauded her for making time for her faith, writing, “I love that she is going to church and she is thinking at her soul too.”

Another admirer praised her resilience, “Strength and grace in every step.” And heartfelt encouragement flowed, with one user penning, “Good on you Kate, happy for beautiful soul [sic].” Comments of joy and relief continued, “I’m so happy for her,” and “I’m happy that she is feeling better.” Despite the mixed reactions, Catherine’s strength has clearly inspired many.

Following her recent return to public life, the Princess of Wales has wasted no time in resuming her royal duties and getting back to what she’s passionate about—early childhood development.

Her first public engagement, which appeared in the Court Circular, was a meeting at Windsor Castle. The entry, published by The Telegraph, stated, “The Princess of Wales, Joint Patron, The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales, this afternoon held an Early Years Meeting at Windsor Castle.”

She was joined by her dedicated team from the Centre for Early Childhood and Kensington Palace staff, discussing the project closest to her heart.

It was a quiet but powerful step as she eased back into her role with “a handful” of engagements over the coming months. This marked the first official record of her activities this year since stepping back from public life to undergo major abdominal surgery and cancer treatment.