King Charles Issues First Statement Since Cancer Diagnosis: ‘Thankful For…’

Britain’s King Charles, who was recently diagnosed with cancer, has released a statement for the first time since the news broke. King Charles said: “I would like to express my sincerest thanks for the many messages of support and well wishes that I have received in recent days.”

On Monday, Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles, 75, had been diagnosed with cancer less than 18 months into his reign, adding that he would postpone some engagements due to treatment.

“As all those who have been affected by cancer know, such kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement,” said King Charles.

King Charles added that it was heartening to hear how his diagnosis had helped shine a light on organizations supporting cancer patients in the UK and beyond.

The news of King Charles’s cancer came after he spent three nights in hospital in January where he underwent surgery to correct a benign enlargement of the prostate.

Emphasizing his gratitude to doctors and cancer charities, King Charles said: “My lifelong admiration for their tireless care and dedication is all the greater because it comes from my own personal experience.”

Buckingham Palace has not given any details about the king’s condition, other than to say it is not prostate cancer. However, it has said that King Charles is “fully recovered” and looks forward to returning to public duties as soon as possible.

King Charles’ wife, Queen Camilla, said on Thursday that she was doing “very well.”

While the king undergoes treatment and Prince William’s wife, Kate, recovers from abdominal surgery, the responsibility for ensuring the public image of the monarchy rests with the remaining members of the royal family, especially William and Camilla.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the disease was “detected early”.

King Charles’ diagnosis came just 17 months into his reign, following the death of his 96-year-old mother, Queen Elizabeth II, on September 8, 2022. The King had been in generally good health, apart from injuries sustained while playing polo and skiing.

King Charles’ estranged younger son, Prince Harry, flew to Britain to visit him on Tuesday, adding to the drama of the week.

The couple met for a 45-minute meeting at Charles’ Clarence House residence in London before Harry returned to his home in the United States.