King Charles: My cancer diagnosis revealed ‘the very best of humanity’

King Charles spoke out about his cancer diagnosis as an experience which showed “the very best of humanity.” In a moving personal message, Charles expressed gratitude to cancer support groups and charities for their important part in helping patients and families at times of distress.

Buckingham Palace announced in February 2024 that King Charles had cancer, which was found during tests after treatment for an enlarged prostate. Since then, Charles has been undergoing treatment while gradually resuming public duties. Though updates on his condition have been limited, a Buckingham Palace source indicated in December that his treatment had been progressing positively, according to Reuters.

Charles used a message to attendees at a reception dedicated to the work of the cancer community to share his experiences of the disease.

“Each diagnosis, each new case, will be a daunting and at times frightening experience for those individuals and their loved ones. “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,” Charles said in the message.

Charles thanked charities for their work to raise funds for research, and reflected on the value of the human connection they offer patients in times of need.

“It has certainly given me an even deeper appreciation of the extraordinary work undertaken by the remarkable organisations and individuals gathered here this evening, many of whom I have known, visited and supported over the years,” Charles said.

“And it has reinforced what I have long observed during these visits – that the darkest moments of illness can be illuminated by the greatest compassion.”

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