Pregnant Kate’s royal baby bump debut
For the first time, the Duchess of Cambridge has revealed her tiny baby bump since her pregnancy was announced last month.
Duchess Kate, who has not been seen in public since August 30, joined Prince William and Prince Harry to host a reception at Buckingham Palace for World Mental Health Day.
Kate wore a pale blue lace dress by Temperley London which revealed her tiny bump.
Kate has withdrawn from public duties for six weeks due to extreme morning sickness that she also had during her previous two pregnancies.
The morning sickness forced Kensington Palace to announce her pregnancy earlier than planned.
A source has revealed that while Kate is still suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum, her condition is improving.
Guests at the reception praised Kate for attending despite her recent battle with her health.
Dr Nicola Byrom from charity Student Minds said, “She’s amazing. What a fighter that she’s here.”
Kate appeared to be in good spirits as she welcomed guests alongside William and Harry in one of the palace’s reception rooms.
The 350 guests at the reception included Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, Dame Esther Rantzen and model Adwoa Aboah.
Stephen Fry, who is the president of the charity Mind said, “I do understand she's been having this problem more severely than many pregnant mothers and so we're very grateful [she's here].”
Regarding the event, Stephen said, “When mental health is discussed here under these chandeliers in front of these portraits it does have a meaning it does show a change in our society's ability to look at problems like mental health.”
The event recognised the progress, hard work and dedication of those who have strived to raise awareness of mental health issues.
William, Kate and Harry have supported the issue with their Heads Together mental health campaign that has aimed to break the stigma of speaking out mental health.
Image credit: Heathcliff O'Mailey