Princess Michael of Kent encountered a severe accident at her residence in Kensington Palace.
According to People, she fell down the stairs, incurring breaks in both wrists, but still made her appearances at recent royal engagements.
This unfortunate incident occurred while the princess was handling a stack of overcoats, an attempt to arrest her fall led to several fractures in smaller bones.
Despite her condition, Princess Michael of Kent displayed remarkable resilience. On December 19, 2024, she attended King Charles’ annual pre-Christmas luncheon at Buckingham Palace, her wrists supported by splints.
"So many things that you rely on being able to do, like cleaning your teeth, are impossible," she shared with attendees, highlighting the challenges of her daily activities post-accident.
Furthermore, on December 6, 2024, along with her family, she participated in Kate Middleton's Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey, manifesting her dedication to royal family events even in the face of personal difficulties.
Handling everyday technology has also proved challenging for Princess Michael after the mishap. She mentioned, "I can type with one finger on a mobile, but I can’t use a laptop," underscoring the temporary limitations she faces.
The recovery process is delicate and requires careful management to avoid complicating the healing of her bone fractures. "I am told that, after an accident like this, if you do one wrong movement on top of the unhealed bones, you are back where you started," she explained in Majesty Magazine.
Here is the recount by Princess Michael on how her previous year has added to her challenges: "It shocked me. I still have to rest every afternoon. They were very happy together," remarked her late son-in-law.
The last year has also been challenging for Princess Michael due to medical issues beyond her recent injuries. She underwent heart surgery, which still impacts her daily regimen necessitating rest every afternoon.
Besides her health, the princess has been coping with the grief from the loss of her son-in-law, Thomas Kingston who died tragically in February 2024. "Tom was a lovely man, so kind and thoughtful," she fondly remembered. The bereavement saw Lady Gabriella, the daughter of Princess Michael, move back to Kensington Palace to live with her parents following her husband's unexpected demise.
Princess Michael of Kent, born Baroness Marie-Christine von Reibnitz, is married to Prince Michael of Kent, Queen Elizabeth's first cousin. Though they are not working royals and do not receive public funds, the couple is actively involved in charity work.
As someone who supports various charitable causes, she continues to make public appearances despite her physical setbacks, showcasing her commitment to her duties and social responsibilities.
This year has undoubtedly been marked by personal struggles for Princess Michael of Kent. Nevertheless, she remains an active participant in royal duties and charitable activities, steeled by a demanding year of recovery and personal loss. Her presence at significant royal events, despite her injuries, exemplifies her resilience and dedication to royal family obligations.