King Charles has thanked the public for their support in the wake of his recent cancer diagnosis.
“I would like to express my most heartfelt thanks for the many messages of support and good wishes I have received in recent days,” the Monarch said in a statement on February 10.
“As all those who have been affected by cancer will know, such kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement.”
“It is equally heartening to hear how sharing my own diagnosis has helped promote public understanding and shine a light on the work of all those organisations which support cancer patients and their families across the UK and wider world,” Charles said.
“My lifelong admiration for their tireless care and dedication is all the greater as a result of my own personal experience.”
King Charles’s cancer was discovered during the King’s recent hospital visit, where he was treated for a benign prostate enlargement.
Buckingham Palace released a statement on the diagnosis, which read:
“During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer.
“His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties. Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake state business and official paperwork as usual.”
The statement continued, “The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure. He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.
“His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”
No further details have been shared around the King’s specific diagnosis, or prognosis.
The King, 75, is the second senior member of the royal family to undergo medical treatment in recent weeks. The Princess of Wales is currently recovering from abdominal surgery at her home in Windsor, sfter spending 13 days in hospital. The palace has not shared the reason for this treatment, however they confirmed Kate would not return to public duties until after Easter.
The King’s youngest son, Prince Harry, briefly returned to the UK to support his father as he began cancer treatment.
King Charles has stepped back from public-facing responsibilities for now.
