King Charles talks about 'darkest moments' of cancer in deeply personal message
King Charles spoke candidly about his own journey since being diagnosed with cancer in February last year
King Charles has opened up like never before about his cancer battle, delivering a raw and deeply personal message that speaks to the emotional toll of the disease and the strength found in community and care.
In a letter shared at a Buckingham Palace reception celebrating grassroots cancer support organisations, the 76-year-old monarch spoke candidly about his own journey since being diagnosed with cancer in February last year.
“Each diagnosis, each new case, will be a daunting and at times frightening experience for those individuals and their loved ones,” he wrote.
“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.”
King Charles praised the work of the organisations gathered at the palace, many of which he has supported and visited over the years, and highlighted the importance of compassion during illness.
“The darkest moments of illness can be illuminated by the greatest compassion,” he said.
The King concluded his moving message by quoting the late Dame Deborah James, the beloved cancer campaigner who passed away from bowel cancer in 2022.
“Find a life worth enjoying; take risks; love deeply; have no regrets; and always, always have rebellious hope,” he quoted, adding that her words should serve as inspiration for anyone facing a diagnosis.
What has King Charles been diagnosed with?
King Charles was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer in February 2024 and has been undergoing regular treatment ever since.
After initially postponing public-facing duties for nearly 12 weeks, the monarch resumed a full schedule of engagements, including a demanding tour of Australia and Samoa.
Despite the brief hospital visit, a royal source indicated that King Charles’ treatment remains on track and that his planned state visit to Italy next month is still expected to proceed.
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