The New Nation - Internet Edition

AP, Tokyo

Japan's crown princess celebrated her 44th birthday on Sunday, still suffering from a stress disorder that has kept her from most official duties and public appearances since 2003. Officials say Crown Princess Masako is gradually recovering from "adjustment disorder," a stress-induced illness, and needs rest and quiet. She has been seen occasionally at family events, particularly with her daughter, Princess Aiko, who is now in kindergarten. Masako is taking medication for her illness and sees a counselor. Masako, a former diplomat and graduate of Harvard and Oxford, married Crown Prince Naruhito, heir to the throne, in 1993. She was under intense pressure to bear a son, and suffered a miscarriage in 1999. Her daughter was born in 2001.