Buckingham Palace has announced that King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer, leading to an immediate initiation of treatment that will necessitate his withdrawal from public duties for the immediate future. The 75-year-old monarch, who recently underwent treatment for a benign enlarged prostate, will now focus on receiving regular outpatient treatments.
The diagnosis was made following a recent hospital procedure, during which a separate issue of concern was identified. While Buckingham Palace has not disclosed the specific type of cancer, they have clarified that it is not prostate cancer. Despite the challenging circumstances, the king remains optimistic about his treatment, with Buckingham Palace affirming that he is wholly positive about the medical intervention.
In light of his diagnosis, King Charles III has taken the proactive step of informing his immediate family members, including his sons, the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Sussex, as well as his siblings, the Princess Royal, Duke of Edinburgh, and Duke of York. Prince Harry, upon learning of his father’s diagnosis, will be traveling to the UK to be by his side in the coming days, with Meghan Markle remaining in the US with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
The announcement from Buckingham Palace emphasized that despite undergoing treatment, King Charles III will continue to fulfill his constitutional role as head of state, albeit with a temporary postponement of public-facing engagements. He will maintain his involvement in state business, official paperwork, and private meetings, ensuring the continuity of his constitutional responsibilities.
Expressing regret over the need to reschedule forthcoming public engagements, a spokesperson for Buckingham Palace conveyed the king’s sincere apologies to those affected. Plans for his diary are currently being adjusted, with details yet to be finalized regarding the timing of a full program of engagements.
The news of King Charles III’s diagnosis prompted an outpouring of support from world leaders and public figures. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took to social media to wish the monarch a full and speedy recovery, echoing sentiments shared by opposition leader Keir Starmer and US President Joe Biden. Former US President Donald Trump and other prominent figures also extended their well wishes to the king and his family.
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The monarch’s diagnosis comes at a challenging time for the royal family, with Catherine, Princess of Wales, currently recuperating at home following planned abdominal surgery. While her medical details remain private, her absence from public duties is expected to continue until after Easter, further reducing the number of working royals available for official engagements.
In response to the king’s diagnosis, the Prince of Wales, who had previously taken time off to support his wife during her hospitalization, is set to resume public duties this week. His engagement at Windsor Castle for an investiture ceremony and a gala fundraising event for the London air ambulance underscore his commitment to fulfilling royal responsibilities during this challenging period.
The monarch’s decision to share his diagnosis serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and awareness in confronting health challenges, inspiring individuals worldwide to prioritize their well-being and seek necessary medical care.
Source: TheGuardian