King Charles, 75, Issues His First Public Statement since Cancer Diagnosis
King Charles III could not attend the public celebrations for Grenada’s 50th Independence anniversary. Still, he released a statement sending warm greetings to the nation’s people.
In light of King Charles III’s cancer diagnosis, he has taken a step back from his royal duties as advised. However, that did not stop him from sending his well wishes and congratulations to the people of Grenada.
King Charles III attends the Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church on December 25, 2023 in London, England | Source: Getty Images
As part of the Commonwealth family, Grenada is well-recognized by the Monarch. He highlighted that Grenada has been an excellent example of human rights, democracy, and resilience. “In this Grenadian spirit you can take the greatest pride,” he emphasized.
However, the King also expressed sadness over being unable to attend the celebrations. “I can only say how sorry I am that I cannot be with you in person to mark this momentous milestone,” he included.
King Charles III during his visit to the Royal British Legion Centenary Wood on March 7, 2022 in Newquay, England | Source: Getty Images
In his statement, the Royal also revealed the fond memories he and his wife had in the “Spice Island” half a decade back. What stood out most to him was the nation’s people and community. Despite King Charles’ absence, he continues to celebrate Grenada through words.
King Charles III leaves The London Clinic with Queen Camilla on January 29, 2024 in London, England | Source: Getty Images
The Monarch previously announced his diagnosis publicly, revealing that his prostate enlargement procedure resulted in medical professionals finding another issue. The following tests confirmed it to be cancer.
As he undergoes treatments for the illness, he was advised to halt his duties that involved physical presence elsewhere. However, he will still be conducting business and paperwork in his home.
King Charles III attends the Sunday service at the Church of St Mary Magdalene on January 7, 2024 in Sandringham, England | Source: Getty Images
On the other hand, Prince William recently returned to his senior royal duties since his father’s diagnosis. He previously went on a break to tend to his wife’s needs amidst her operation and recovery.
William hosted an investiture at Windsor Castle, where honors were given to Ellen White, an English football player. The royal later attended London’s Air Ambulance Charity’s fundraising gala. Given his father’s state, William will likely assume more responsibility in the King’s place.
King Charles III poses during the recording of his Christmas message at Buckingham Palace on December 7, 2023 in London, England | Source: Getty Images
Besides the King, Prince Edward is also taking a short break from his duties following his return from South Africa and St. Helena. With the three royals, including Kate Middleton, at rest, the other women in the royal family have stepped up and have been attending engagements.
As previously reported on February 5:
King Charles at Barnard Castle on February 15, 2018 in Durham, England Source: Getty Images
King Charles is confronting a new health challenge following a recent procedure for an enlarged prostate. Buckingham Palace announced on Monday that the 75-year-old monarch has been diagnosed with cancer.
During the procedure for benign prostate enlargement, doctors discovered a separate issue of concern. Subsequent tests have confirmed a form of cancer, according to a palace statement.
King Charles III inspects the 200th Sovereign’s parade at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst on April 14, 2023 in Camberley, England Source: Getty Images
His Majesty has begun a regular treatment schedule and has been advised to postpone public-facing duties. He will, however, continue to handle State business and official paperwork as usual.
The King expressed his gratitude towards his medical team for their prompt intervention, made possible by his recent hospital visit. He remains optimistic about his treatment and aims to return to full public duties soon.
King Charles has chosen to publicize his diagnosis to prevent speculation and hopes it will help increase public understanding of cancer. The monarch is determined to assist others worldwide affected by the disease.
The public has rallied on social media to express support and wishes for King Charles following the announcement of his cancer diagnosis. Comments like “Get well soon your Majesty, prayers for your recovery” underscore the concern and hope for the monarch’s swift recuperation.
King Charles III at Windsor Castle, on December 13, 2022 in Windsor, England | Source: Getty Images
Voices from around the world are reaching out, with one user stating, “My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.” This sentiment reflects the global community’s solidarity with the British royal family during this time.
As previously reported on January 30:
As a positive update on the health situation of the King of England, King Charles III has been discharged from The London Clinic. He walked out of the hospital, hand-in-hand with his beloved wife, Queen Camilla, on the afternoon of his discharge.
The King spent three nights at the clinic, where he received care after undergoing prostate surgery. Footage showed the happy couple, dressed smartly, smiling at the cameras as His Majesty The King waved to the public before getting into their car.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla during day 1 of the Royal Ascot in Ascot, England on June 16, 2015 | Source: Getty Images
Before King Charles III exited the hospital, Queen Camilla visited him a few times while he was still there. People who saw the video of the King leaving the hospital reacted differently. One person expressed, “He looks very thin.”
Another said, “Looks very healthy. But he needs more rest. Hope he finds a quiet spot for a few weeks. Scotland would be perfect 👌😊,” while a third social media user who was pleased by the King’s appearance stated, “Impressed that His Majesty is walking so smoothly.”
King Charles III at the 70th Anniversary of VE Day event in London, England on May 10, 2015 | Source: Getty Images
King Charles III’s hospital release comes just after it was announced that the Princess of Wales also left The London Clinic and returned home, where she continues to recover from her abdominal surgery.
As we continue to follow this unfolding story, a look back at our previous article provides further insights into the Queen’s unwavering support for her husband, the King, as previously reported on January 29:
Since his hospitalization, footage and pictures of Queen Camilla visiting her husband, King Charles III, have sparked online buzz. So far, the Queen has been seen visiting His Majesty The King three times.
Following his corrective surgery, King Charles III has been recovering at the same hospital where the Princess of Wales, Princess Catherine, is. During her first visit, a smiling Queen Camilla adorned a coat-like navy dress as she left the hospital and entered her car.
Queen Camilla seen visiting King Charles III at The London Clinic in London, England on January 26, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
A video of her second visit showed her royal driver and security team escorting her from The London Clinic. She was dressed in a green and white ensemble. Many had differing opinions when social media users saw Queen Camilla during her visits.
Queen Camilla seen leaving The London Clinic in London, England on January 27, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
One person felt strongly about Queen Camilla’s visits being her obligation as opposed to something she did because of her devoted love for the King. They expressed, “These shouldn’t be the news headline because it was her duty as his wife to visit the husband.” Another asserted, “Camilla should say very short words concerning her husband. Bizarre.” Someone else noted, “Her eyes aren’t smiling.”
Queen Camilla spotted visiting King Charles III at The London Clinic in London, England on January 28, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Despite the judgemental opinions of some, others praised Queen Camilla and continued to send their well wishes to the King. One fan gushed, “The King is lucky to have such a devoted Queen by his side ❤️❤️❤️❤️.”
Another wrote, “Well, I noticed she had a smile on her face. I hope all is well. Hope the King gets discharged soon.” Someone else stated, “He has always been the love of her life and vice versa.”
Queen Camilla and King Charls III during the third day of their visit to Wales in Builth Wells, Wales on July 4, 2018 | Source: Getty Images
Before her recent trips to the hospital, Queen Camilla gave a quick update on how her beloved husband has been doing since his operation. In a TikTok video, she divulged, “He’s fine, thank you very much. He’s looking forward to getting back to work.”
The 15-second-long video ends with the Queen walking away from the person who asked her how King Charles III was doing and showed her going to address a group of children.
As previously reported on January 26:
King Charles III waves as he attends the Royal Cornwall Show in Wadebridge, United Kingdom on June 7, 2018. | Source: Getty Images
King Charles III and Princess of Wales Kate Middleton are facing health issues, leading to the postponement of their royal engagements. Kate underwent a planned abdominal surgery and will be in a London hospital for two weeks from January 16, 2024.
King Charles III kisses the Princess of Wales Kate Middleton at the premiere of the James Bond 007 film “No Time to Die” in West London on September 28, 2021. | Source: Getty Images
Both senior royals have had to reschedule their previously arranged public commitments in the coming weeks. Kate, married to Prince William, the heir to the throne, is expected to make a full recovery.
Prince William in a black and white picture posted on December 6, 2022 | Source: Instagram/princeandprincessofwales
Princess Catherine in a black and white picture posted on December 6, 2022 | Source: Instagram/princeandprincessofwales
Princess Catherine cheering for Prince William at an awards ceremony posted on December 6, 2022 | Source: Instagram/princeandprincessofwales
King Charles III was also set to undergo a corrective procedure on January 26, 2024. Buckingham Palace announced on January 17, 2024, that the procedure was for the King’s enlarged prostate but that his condition was benign.
The King was photographed ahead of his planned operation on his way from Clarence House to a London clinic. He went into the same clinic where Kate underwent surgery and even passed by to visit his daughter-in-law. After he was admitted, a spokesperson for Buckingham Palace said the King thanked all who sent him good wishes.
King Charles III attends the presentation of Addresses by both Houses of Parliament in Westminster Hall, central London on September 12, 2022. | Source: Getty Images
The public has sent love and prayers to the Princess and the King as they start their respective recovery journeys. “❤️🙏 to both,” one person wrote. The public also wished the two a “speedy recovery.” “Wishing King Charles and Princess Catherine a speedy recovery. God Save The King and Catherine of Wales,” another person said.
Princess of Wales Kate Middleton attends the Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church in Sandringham, Norfolk on December 25, 2023. | Source: Getty Images
The Princess and His Majesty’s health updates were given to avoid speculation if they both fail to attend upcoming events or if some occasions are canceled. A spokesperson for King Charles III also announced the postponement of his public engagements during his recovery.
Several events on the royal family’s agenda, including visits by foreign dignitaries and members of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s Cabinet to Dumfries House in Scotland, have already been rescheduled.
King Charles III and the Princess of Wales Kate Middleton during their visit to a training site for arts and culture in London, England on February 3, 2022. | Source: Getty Images
The Princess of Wales and the King are expected to recover fully and resume their public engagements. Still, as they recuperate, they can count on the public’s well-wishes for a speedy recovery.