King Charles III made his first public appearance since being diagnosed with cancer with his wife, Queen Camilla, by his side.
Looking in good spirits as he and Camilla, 76, waved to the cheering crowd, the king, who is now Cancer Research UK’s new patron, visited a specialist cancer center in London on Tuesday, April 30, in support of staff, patients and ongoing research.
The monarch, 75, has stayed away from public events and crowds since an Easter Sunday church service.
Buckingham Palace confirmed on Friday, April 26, that Charles would return to public duties for the first time while being treated for an undisclosed form of cancer.
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“His Majesty The King will shortly return to public-facing duties after a period of treatment and recuperation following his recent cancer diagnosis,” read a statement at the time. “To help mark this milestone, The King and Queen will make a joint visit to a cancer treatment center next Tuesday, where they will meet medical specialists and patients.”
According to the palace, Charles’ medical team is very “encouraged by the progress” he has made and “remain positive” about his recovery.
“Forthcoming engagements will be adapted where necessary to minimize any risks to His Majesty’s continued recovery,” the statement continued. “The pacing of the King’s program will be carefully calibrated as his recovery continues, in close consultation with his medical team.”
Shortly after he underwent a planned prostate procedure in January, Buckingham Palace announced the following month that Charles had been diagnosed with cancer.
“During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted,” the statement read. “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 went on to share that Charles was “grateful to his medical team” and “remains wholly positive about his treatment.”
This morning he was able to kick off his gradual return to public engagements, starting with the visit to the Macmillan Cancer Centre at University College Hospital in central London.
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“His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer,” the palace added.
Nearly one week after his diagnosis, Charles addressed his health battle for the first time, thanking well-wishers for all the thoughtful words of encouragement.
“I would like to express my most heartfelt thanks for the many messages of support and good wishes I have received in recent days,” he said in a personal statement released by Buckingham Palace in February. “As all those who have been affected by cancer will know, such kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement.”
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The past few months have been challenging for the royal family. Charles’ daughter-in-law Princess Kate Middleton announced her own cancer diagnosis in March following weeks of speculation about her health in the wake of her abdominal surgery. The king was supportive of Kate, 42, after her revelation.
“His Majesty is so proud of Catherine for her courage and speaking as she did. Following their time in hospital together, His Majesty has remained in the closest contact with his beloved daughter-in-law throughout the past weeks,” Charles said in a statement, per ABC News. “Both their Majesties will continue to offer their love and support to the whole family throughout this difficult time.”
