King Charles III, who ascended to the throne in 2022, has been diagnosed with a form of cancer, Buckingham Palace announced on Monday.
The diagnosis was made recently while the King underwent treatment for a benign enlarged prostate. According to the press release, he has begun a schedule of regular treatments and has postponed his public duties, but remains positive and hopeful about his recovery.
The palace, however, did not disclose the type or stage of cancer, but said it was not prostate cancer. They also said that King Charles would continue to undertake state business and official paperwork as usual, and that he had chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and to raise awareness for those affected by cancer.
His sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, were informed of their father’s condition and have been in contact with him. Prince Harry, who lives in the United States, is expected to fly to the UK to visit his father in the coming days. Prince William, who recently returned to public duties after his wife Catherine’s surgery, will take on more of the King’s engagements in his absence.
The news of King Charles’ cancer diagnosis has shocked and saddened many people in the UK and around the world, who have sent their prayers and messages of encouragement to the King and his family.
Many political and religious leaders, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, and Cardinal Vincent Nichols, have also offered their sympathy and best wishes to the King.
King Charles is expected to make a statement about his condition and his treatment plan in the next few days. He has also said that he looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.
