Queen Camilla's 'fear' as King Charles announced cancer diagnosis to the world
Camilla reportedly feared that going public with the king’s illness might overwhelm him
When King Charles made the courageous decision to publicly share his cancer diagnosis last year, few knew that behind the scenes, Queen Camilla was reportedly grappling with a quiet fear: that the scrutiny might take a toll on his recovery.
The king, 77, has since been widely praised for his openness. However, a source close to the couple has claimed that Camilla initially believed the diagnosis should remain private.
The source told The Times that Camilla reportedly worried that “once the door on it had been opened, it could never be closed”.
King Charles’ cancer diagnosis
In February 2024, Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles was undergoing cancer treatment. No specific cancer type has been disclosed, but it was confirmed to be unrelated to his earlier prostate procedure.
The move marked a historic shift in royal transparency.
Charles chose visibility from the outset. Despite some royal aides suggesting a discreet car for hospital visits, the king insisted on using the state Bentley with large windows.
The decision to be so public was not without controversy. Some within royal circles felt it wasn’t “very dignified” for a monarch to disclose such a personal health matter.
But Charles was unwavering. He allegedly saw his illness as an opportunity to help others. In a statement at the time, the palace announced: “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.”
According to The Times, Camilla initially “feared the toll public scrutiny of his health might take on his recovery”.
‘Being so open has been hugely positive’
However, for Camilla, 78, the initial fear has now turned into pride. According to a source, the queen has taken “comfort” in how positively the public responded to her husband’s vulnerability.
“Both of them now unequivocally think that being so open has been hugely positive,” the insider said.
Royal Insider has contacted reps for Buckingham Palace for comment.
The king’s decision to speak out has had a tangible impact.
On December 5, Cancer Research UK launched an online screening tool. One week later, on December 12, the king gave a rare public speech addressing his illness and recovery journey.
During the message, he promoted the use of the screening tool.
The charity’s CEO, Michelle Mitchell, revealed, as per GB News: “Since launching our new Cancer Screening Checker, we’ve seen around 100,000 visits so far from people seeking information about cancer screening, with most of these taking place after his majesty the king spoke openly about his own cancer journey during the Stand Up To Cancer live show.”
The king’s cancer message
Meanwhile, Charles’ speech underscored the importance of early diagnosis, which remains critical in improving cancer survival rates.
According to Cancer Research UK, nearly 60% of cancer diagnoses in 2024 were caught early, a record figure that NHS England hopes to raise to 75% by 2028.
Charles reflected on his own experience in Friday’s speech.
“I know from my own experience that a cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming,” the king began. “Yet I also know that early detection is the key that can transform treatment journeys, giving invaluable time to medical teams – and, to their patients, the precious gift of hope.
“Early diagnosis quite simply saves lives. I know, too, what a difference it has made in my own case, enabling me to continue leading a full and active life, even while undergoing treatment.”
He also shared the good news that his treatment will be “reduced” in the new year.
Read more: King Charles set to ‘fly more than 15,000 miles on overseas tours next year’ after cancer update
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