Kate Middleton may be the Princess of Wales, but her journey from small-town girl to royal icon has been shadowed by loss, illness and relentless public scrutiny, RadarOnline.com can reveal.

Behind the polished smiles and elegant appearances, the 43-year-old's life has often been far removed from the fairy tale imagined by millions. Article continues below advertisement

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Born Catherine Elizabeth Middleton in Berkshire, she grew up with her parents Carole and Michael, along with siblings Pippa and James.

A relatively quiet childhood turned turbulent when she met Prince William , then 19, at the University of St Andrews in 2001.

By 2003 they were dating , and Kate's life shifted overnight –

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