Queen Camilla shares new health update on King Charles as she admits 'problem'
The king and queen recently returned from a state visit to Italy
Queen Camilla has shared a fresh update on King Charles‘ health, revealing that while he is “getting better” amid his cancer treatment, his unstoppable work ethic has become a bit of a problem.
Speaking to the press during the royal couple’s recent state visit to Italy, which also marked their 20th wedding anniversary, Camilla candidly admitted that the king, 76, refuses to slow down, even amid his recovery.
“I think he loves his work and it keeps him going,” the queen, 77, said, according to the BBC.
“And I think it’s wonderful, you know, if you’ve been ill and you are recovering, you’re getting better and now he wants to do more and more and more. That’s the problem.”
Queen Camilla gives health update on King Charles
When asked if King Charles might consider easing his workload, Queen Camilla didn’t mince words.
“Dream on,” she replied.
Her comments come after the monarch completed a hectic four-day schedule in Italy. The state visit included engagements across Rome and Ravenna.
What is the diagnosis for King Charles?
In February 2024, King Charles was diagnosed with cancer. He began treatment and it’s ongoing.
According to senior palace sources, King Charles has responded well to his cancer treatment. Despite a recent brief hospital stay in March 2025, doctors are confident in his continued recovery.
I think he loves his work and it keeps him going.
His ability to undertake the Italian tour was also seen as a testament to his improving health.
“He knows he is fortunate to be in a position to make a difference, and is determined to do just that,” one senior aide said, according to the BBC. “We’ve all tried [to get him to slow down]! But as people will have seen, the king enjoys his work, he enjoys engaging with as many people as possible.”
Charles and Camilla celebrated 20th wedding anniversary with visit to Italy
The visit to Italy held additional meaning for the royal couple as they celebrated two decades of marriage.
During the tour, Pope Francis offered his personal best wishes to Charles and Camilla for their anniversary. The moment was described as “very significant and special”.
Reflecting on their marriage, Queen Camilla told the press on the trip: “Who could believe it was 20 years? What is the secret? I don’t know, well, I suppose it’s just the sort of friendship really, laughing at the same things, getting on with life.”
She also acknowledged how their royal duties often keep them apart.
“We are always going in different directions, like ships that pass in the night really,” she said. “We whizz past each other.”
The king and queen were warmly welcomed throughout their visit, with enthusiastic crowds turning out in cities like Ravenna, where the couple also attended a local food festival.
One of the highlights for the king was his visit to the Basilica of San Vitale, home to stunning 6th-century Byzantine mosaics. A palace aide noted the monarch was “genuinely deeply moved” by the experience.
With more international engagements planned for the year, it’s clear that King Charles has no intention of slowing down.
Despite the challenges of his health, the monarch remains committed to his work.
As Queen Camilla put it: “That’s what he’s driven by – helping others.”
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