King Charles Diagnosed with Cancer, Buckingham Palace Confirms
In a shocking announcement, Buckingham Palace has confirmed that King Charles has been diagnosed with cancer. Although the specific type of cancer has not been disclosed, it was discovered during his recent treatment for an enlarged prostate. The Palace revealed that the King began “regular treatments” on Monday and remains optimistic about his treatment.
As a result of his diagnosis, King Charles will be postponing his public engagements, with senior members of the royal family expected to stand in for him. However, he eagerly looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible, according to the Palace. No further details regarding the stage of cancer or a prognosis have been shared at this time.
The King personally informed both of his sons about his diagnosis, and Prince William has been in regular contact with his father. Prince Harry, who currently resides in the United States, also spoke to his father and plans to travel to the UK in the coming days to see him.
Upon returning to London from Sandringham in Norfolk, the 75-year-old King immediately commenced treatment as an outpatient. While he will temporarily pause his public events, he will continue fulfilling his constitutional role as head of state, which includes paperwork and private meetings.
In the event that the head of state is unable to carry out official duties, there is a constitutional mechanism in place. “Counsellors of state” can be appointed to stand in for the monarch. Currently, this includes Queen Camilla, Prince William, Princess Anne, and Prince Edward. Notably, Prince Harry and Prince Andrew will no longer be called upon as non-working royals.
Prince William had previously withdrawn from public engagements to support his wife, Catherine, the Princess of Wales, as she recovered from abdominal surgery. However, it was announced earlier on Monday that he would be returning to his public duties later in the week.
Just a day before the announcement, the King was seen attending a church service in Sandringham, where he waved to crowds. It was during this time that he had a prostate procedure at a private London hospital. The King chose to make his prostate treatment public in order to raise awareness and encourage more men to undergo prostate checks. The Palace expressed his delight in having shed light on the issue, as the NHS website reported a surge in inquiries about prostate conditions.
It is important to note that the likelihood of developing cancer increases with age. UK statistics indicate that more than a third (36%) of new cancer cases each year are diagnosed in individuals aged 75 and over.
Upon hearing the news, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, and Commons Speaker Sir Lyndsay Hoyle all extended their well wishes to King Charles for a full and speedy recovery.
As the King begins his treatment journey, the nation stands united in support of him and eagerly awaits his return to full health.
