King Charles is set to return to his public duties just months after being diagnosed with cancer. Buckingham Palace said treatment has had a ‘positive effect’ on the monarch, with medics ‘pleased’ with the progress made so far.
In a statement released tonight, Friday, April 26, the Palace said the King was now able to return to some duties – but treatment would continue. The announcement will be a welcome boost for the Royal Family as it comes to terms with both the King and Catherine, Princess of Wales receiving treatment for cancer.
A Palace spokesperson said: “His Majesty’s medical team are very encouraged by the progress made so far and remain positive about the King’s continued recovery.” The King’s cancer diagnosis was announced in February after he underwent treatment for an enlarged prostate.
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The Palace has not confirmed the type of cancer King Charles is being treated for but has said it is not prostate cancer. He has been receiving care as an outpatient since his diagnosis.
King Charles’ diary of events will not be a full summer programme, with public visits planned ‘subject to doctors’ advice’. Engagements are also expected to be ‘adapted’ to minimise any health risks.
It is understood the warmer weather could allow events to be staged outside and minimise any risks posed by other people, which many cancer patients face. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: “His Majesty’s treatment programme will continue, but doctors are sufficiently pleased with the progress made so far that the King is now able to resume a number of public-facing duties.
“Forthcoming engagements will be adapted where necessary to minimise any risks to His Majesty’s continued recovery. The pacing of the King’s programme will be carefully calibrated as his recovery continues, in close consultation with his medical team.”
The Palace said Charles and the Queen would visit a cancer treatment centre on Tuesday, April 30 to ‘mark the milestone’. The couple will meet medical specialists and patients.
The event aims to raise awareness of the importance of early diagnosis and highlight innovative research supported by Cancer Research UK taking place at the hospital. Buckingham Palace said in a statement: “His Majesty The King will shortly return to public-facing duties after a period of treatment and recuperation following his recent cancer diagnosis.
“To help mark this milestone, the King and Queen will make a joint visit to a cancer treatment centre next Tuesday, where they will meet medical specialists and patients. This visit will be the first in a number of external engagements His Majesty will undertake in the weeks ahead.
“In addition, the King and Queen will host Their Majesties The Emperor and Empress of Japan for a state visit in June, at the request of HM Government. As the first anniversary of the coronation approaches, their Majesties remain deeply grateful for the many kindnesses and good wishes they have received from around the world throughout the joys and challenges of the past year.”
A picture marking the first anniversary of the crowning of the King and Queen on May 6 has also been released, taken the day after their 19th wedding anniversary on April 10. Charles and Camilla are shown smiling broadly and walking arm in arm along a path with shrubs and colourful flowers in the background.
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
