Princess Charlene finally comes home
Princess Charlene has finally been able to reunite with her family in Monaco after an unknown illness saw her withdraw from the public eye.
The 44-year-old has been plagued by poor health for almost a year - with the majority spent separated from her family - and an official statement from the palace has confirmed she has reunited with her husband, Prince Albert, and two children, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella.
“As a result of Princess Charlene’s encouraging recovery and her doctor’s approval, their Serene Highnesses are delighted to announce that the Princess will now continue her convalescence in the principality, with her husband and children by her side,” the statement read.
“Consequently, Princess Charlene has already returned to Monaco where she has been happily reunited with her family and loved ones. The next few weeks should allow for Princess Charlene to further strengthen her health before gradually resuming her official duties and commitments.”
The palace said Charlene still needed to recover before she could spend time with the people of Monaco, but that she “looks forward” to doing so.
The statement also read that the couple asked for privacy for their family in order for the Princess to fully recover.
Charlene was temporarily reunited with her family when they visited her in August last year, after an ear, nose and throat infection saw her undergo multiple surgeries in her native South Africa and remain there for ten months.
She briefly returned to Monaco in November before taking a temporary break from royal duties and reportedly seeking medical care in a Swiss clinic.
In January, the palace issued a statement saying the Princess had received and was recovering from dental treatment over “several weeks”, meaning she would miss the annual celebration of Saint Dévote Day.
“With her husband H.S.H. Prince Albert II, she shares her heart with all Monegasques and residents on the occasion of these celebrations,” the statement, translated from French by PEOPLE, reads.
“As soon as her health will allow, it will be with joy that the Princess once again shares moments of conviviality with them.”
Image: @hshprincesscharlene