James Middleton revealed he joined his sister, the Princess of Wales, for a portion of the gruelling National Three Peaks Challenge, honoring a promise made after her cancer diagnosis. He shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, accompanying a photograph of Catherine hugging him.
Middleton, who runs the dog food brand Ella & Co, wrote, "Two years ago, I told you we'd climb this mountain together. We talked about climbing mountains while you were in hospital, and about the incredible healing power that nature can have for both the body and the mind." He described it as an "honour" to participate in the challenge, which involves scaling three of the UK's highest peaks within 24 hours, to support her message about life after cancer and raise funds for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.
He praised Catherine's "strength, resilience, and determination" as she completed the challenge approximately 18 months after finishing chemotherapy treatment for cancer. "Your strength, resilience, and determination, all while being the most amazing mother, wife, daughter, and sister, inspire me and so many others every single day," Middleton wrote. "Keep being exactly who you are."
Footage of Middleton escorting his sister down Mount Snowdon in Wales last week had previously fueled speculation that they were undertaking part of the challenge together. A video filmed by fellow hiker Phillip Tebajjwa showed Catherine, clad in hiking attire, holding Middleton's hand.
This moment resonated with royal observers who recalled Catherine's support for James during his treatment for severe depression, during which she and their sister Pippa attended therapy sessions with him. Middleton had previously described his sisters' involvement in his recovery as a "very moving moment."
Middleton also shared his support for the Princess of Wales on social media shortly after she announced her cancer diagnosis in March 2024. He posted a childhood photograph of them together with the caption: "Over the years, we have climbed many mountains together. As a family, we will climb this one with you too."
Catherine's parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, also traveled to Wales to support their daughter during the challenge. The Princess of Wales later shared images of her family, including her children, at the finish line, thanking those who supported the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.