The Princess of Wales has completed the National Three Peaks Challenge, a grueling trek that involves climbing the highest mountains in Scotland, England, and Wales. The undertaking is believed to be a royal first, with the princess being the first member of the royal family to complete the challenge.
The princess undertook the trek to raise awareness of the wider impact of serious illness and to give something back. She has a personal connection to the cause, having been treated at the Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea, west London, and has long campaigned on the importance of spending time outdoors.
In a video released about her experience, the princess said she had met some incredible people living with and beyond cancer, and that she personally understood the challenges that come with the illness. She emphasized the importance of holistic healthcare and the need for supportive care to become a standard part of cancer treatment nationally.
The princess trekked for 23 miles, with a total ascent of more than 10,000 feet, and a driving distance of 462 miles between locations. She wore her sapphire and diamond engagement ring, which belonged to her late mother-in-law, Diana, Princess of Wales.
The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity has launched a specially designed fundraising page to support the princess's efforts. Money raised will be used to help more people with cancer benefit from holistic care and support research into how holistic care can best work alongside clinical cancer treatments.
The princess has gradually returned to royal duties and recently restarted her international travel with a working trip to Italy. The physical challenge marks the latest milestone for the princess, who was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer early in 2024 and underwent chemotherapy before going into remission 17 months ago.
