First photo released of Kate, Princess of Wales, since abdominal surgery in January

The first photo of Kate, Princess of Wales, since she received abdominal surgery in January was released Sunday.

In the photo taken by Prince William, Kate is seen smiling while posing with their children, Princes George and Louis and Princess Charlotte.

The image, released by Kensington Palace and posted on the Prince and Princess of Wales’ X account, was taken in Windsor earlier this week.

“Thank you for your kind wishes and continued support over the last two months,” Kate wrote in the caption of the photo on X. “Wishing everyone a Happy Mother’s Day.” Mother’s Day is on Sunday in the United Kingdom.

The message was signed off by a “C.”

Kate, 42, was hospitalized for almost two weeks in January to undergo abdominal surgery for unspecified reasons, and Kensington Palace said she would step back from official royal duties entirely until at least after Easter. The lack of explanation for her surgery and subsequent long recovery have led to widespread speculation and a slew of online conspiracy theories.

Many began circulating images of when Kate reportedly was last photographed by British tabloids, on Christmas Day.

Royal enthusiasts noticed this week that the army website was advertising Kate’s involvement in Trooping the Colour, a traditional military parade, in London on June 8. But the reference on the British army’s website has since been deleted.

Britain’s Defense Ministry referred questions about the ad’s removal to Kensington Palace. The palace declined to comment.

A spokesperson for Kate late last month reiterated that she is “doing well.”

“Kensington Palace made it clear in January the timelines of the Princess’ recovery and we’d only be providing significant updates. That guidance stands.”