King Charles' statement on 'daunting' cancer experiences and 'darkest moments'
Charles was diagnosed with cancer last yearKing Charles has shared a rare personal statement regarding his cancer journey.
Last year, King Charles was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer. This caused him to briefly step back from his royal duties. Earlier this year, the king was hospitalised due to complications with his treatment.
But over the course of his cancer journey, he has kept a lot of it private – until now. Charles has shared a message at a reception at Buckingham Palace for cancer support charities. He opened up on the “daunting” journey.
What is the King Charles diagnosis?
In February 2024, King Charles announced his cancer diagnosis. The type of cancer he has remains private. The monarch has been undergoing treatment since.
He started the statement by thanking those who were there to celebrate those who care for cancer patients. The monarch reflected on the horrible illness.
Moments from last night’s reception were shared to the royal family’s official Instagram page. Charles was seen meeting guests, and fans were in awe over his appearance.
One person gushed: “Looks like an amazing event and the king was clearly in good spirits – which is lovely to see.”
Another wrote: “It was so lovely to see #KingCharles looking so well during his reception last night.”
Someone else added: “Well these posts seem to be getting more inspirational by the day, you are both looking wonderfully happy.”
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King Charles’ speech at palace reception
Charles said: “Each diagnoses, each new case, will be a daunting and at times frightening experience for those individuals and their loved ones. But as one among those statistics myself, I can vouch for the fact that it can also be an experience that brings into sharp focus the very best of humanity.”
Speaking about his own experience and takeaways, Charles admitted he has a new appreciation for those working with cancer patients.
Each diagnoses, each new case, will be a daunting and at times frightening experience for those individuals and their loved ones.
He continued: “It has certainly given me an even deeper appreciation of the extraordinary work undertaken by the remarkable organisations and individuals gathered here this evening, many of whom I have known, visited and supported over the years.
“And it has reinforced what I have long observed during these visits. That in the darkest moments of illness can be illuminated by the greatest compassion.”
Charles went on to explain how he and Queen Camilla have seen how much “vital research” the patrons give while also helping families “find sanctuary” when they need it “most”.
He added: “These moments of kinship create what I might call a ‘community of care’. One that sustains patients through the most difficult times.”
Charles gives gratitude to patrons
He continued: “So to all the researchers pursuing pioneering breakthroughs; to the healthcare professionals providing specialist treatment; to the volunteers offering comfort, or campaigning to raise awareness; and to the fundraisers enabling all this vital work – you have my whole family’s deepest admiration and gratitude.
“This collective endeavour reminds us of what we can achieve when we are united with common purpose and uncommon determination. While every patient’s journey may be different, together you are ensuring that a cancer diagnosis need never mean facing the future without hope and support.”
King Charles ended the speech by giving a special message to anyone receiving a cancer diagnosis today, using the late Dame Deborah James’ words as her parents where in attendance.
Deborah, a British podcast host and charity campaigner, died in 2022 from bowel cancer at the age of 40.
Charles concluded: “I can only echo the departing words of the late Dame Deborah James, whose parents I am delighted to have here this evening, and whose example stands as an inspiration to us all, in sickness and in health. ‘Find a life worth enjoying; take risks; love deeply; have no regrets; and always, always have rebellious hope.’
“I am so very grateful for all that you do.”
Read more: King Charles’ cautionary marriage advice to son Prince William before his royal wedding
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