After a difficult year that was highlighted by health difficulties and events that overshadowed events involving Prince Harry and Meghan, Princess Kate is looking forward to a fresh start as she approaches her 43rd birthday on January 9.

Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond told OK!, "This birthday is going to be memorable in so many ways - it will mark the start of a new and hopefully happier year." 

There have been major royal announcements that have occurred on Princess Kate's birthdays in the past, such as Prince Harry and Meghan's decision to step back from royal duties and Prince Harry's book release. Due to the fact that she had to undergo abdominal surgery and was diagnosed with cancer the previous year, this birthday is very significant.

It is customary for Princess Kate's birthday to be a low-key family party; nevertheless, it is possible that this year will be a more elaborate occasion. Bond indicated that Prince William and their children will try to make her feel as comfortable as possible throughout her rehabilitation by providing her with gifts such as exquisite bath products or comfy apparel from them. 

"For her husband and children, this will be an excuse to spoil her rotten," Bond added, highlighting the couple's close-knit family dynamic.

The support system that Princess Kate has is not limited to her immediate family; her parents and siblings have been extremely important to her during her course of recuperation. According to the story published by Mirror, Bond envisioned a warm and inviting party with a cake that they had baked themselves, highlighting the significance of having the support of one's family during challenging times. The love that the pair shares is clear, especially in the messages that were sent out during the Princess of Wales's recent carol concert. These messages underlined the importance of having loved ones at one's side during difficult times and the vulnerability that comes along with it.

Moving forward, the year 2024 is going to be a very eventful one for the Princess, as it will mark significant anniversaries such as the fourteenth anniversary of her wedding and the second anniversary of her early years development program, which is called Shaping Us. It is anticipated that she will gradually return to royal duties, but at a regulated pace in order to prioritize her health, despite the fact that she made a limited number of public appearances in the year 2023.

In an effort to take a more contemporary approach to their respective royal positions, Prince William has voiced his desire to go on joint tours of the world with Princess Kate. 

He stated, "I'm trying to do it differently and I'm trying to do it for my generation," indicating a shift towards a more relatable royal presence. 

They continue to be dedicated to providing their children with a sense of normalcy while simultaneously preparing them for the roles that they will play in the future, even as they negotiate the obligations that they already have.

At a time when they are saying goodbye to a turbulent year, Princess Kate's birthday serves as a reminder of the importance of family support and the importance of resiliency, thereby laying the groundwork for a hopeful new beginning.

Business Times has reached out to Princess Kate for comments.