In a recent announcement from the palace, it was revealed that King Charles, aged 75, is currently undergoing treatment for cancer. This comes shortly after the monarch underwent a procedure to address an enlarged prostate in late January.
As a result of his diagnosis, King Charles has decided to temporarily step away from his public duties. It is currently uncertain when he will be able to resume his royal engagements. However, it has been reported that he will continue to receive important documents and process state matters during his treatment.
In light of his father's circumstances, Prince William, aged 41, may take on some of King Charles' responsibilities in addition to managing his own busy schedule. Although there are no plans to appoint Counsellors of State to act on behalf of the King, it is anticipated that Prince William will handle certain duties. Counsellors of State are typically members of the royal family who step in to fulfill constitutional responsibilities when the monarch is unable to do so, such as during periods of illness or when abroad. Currently, Queen Camilla, Prince William, Prince Harry, Prince Andrew, Princess Beatrice, Princess Anne, and Prince Edward hold these positions.
It's important to note that unlike in other monarchies, regents are only permanently instated in the United Kingdom. The House of Commons Library confirms that heirs in the British royal family do not typically serve as regents in the absence of the reigning monarch.
While King Charles focuses on his treatment and recovery, other working members of the royal family will continue their public duties. This means that the public can expect to see more of Queen Camilla, Princess Anne, Prince Edward, and Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh.
However, Princess Kate, aged 42, will be taking time away from the public eye for the next few months. Kensington Palace announced that she underwent surgery on January 17 and is expected to refrain from public duties until after Easter, based on current medical advice.
The news of King Charles' cancer diagnosis comes just a week after he was discharged from the London Clinic, where he underwent treatment for an enlarged prostate. It's important to clarify that he does not have prostate cancer. The diagnosis of a separate cancer issue was made during his hospital stay and subsequent diagnostic tests.
In a statement released by Buckingham Palace, it was confirmed that King Charles has already begun regular treatment and has been advised by doctors to postpone public engagements. However, he will continue to carry out state business and official paperwork as usual. The statement also expressed the King's gratitude to his medical team and his optimism towards his treatment.
The sovereign personally informed his sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, about his diagnosis. Prince William is said to be in regular contact with his father, while Prince Harry, who now resides in California with his wife, Meghan Markle, is expected to travel to the UK in the coming days.
Before the news was made public, King Charles also informed his siblings, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, and Prince Edward about his diagnosis. His recent appearance at St. Mary Magdalene Church near Sandringham alongside Queen Camilla marked his first outing since leaving the hospital on January 29, where he waved to well-wishers on his way out.
As the royal family comes to terms with King Charles' diagnosis, the focus now is on his treatment and recovery. The public can expect to see Prince William taking on additional responsibilities in the interim, while other working members of the royal family continue their regular engagements. The King remains positive and hopeful for a full return to his public duties in due course, and he hopes that sharing his diagnosis will enhance understanding and awareness of cancer for people worldwide who are affected by this disease.
