Charles III
King with cancer sends video message
King Charles is currently not making any public appearances.
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King Charles, who is suffering from cancer, is missing from the Commonwealth service. The monarch speaks out via video message.
King Charles III (75) pledged to continue serving the Commonwealth “to the best of his ability” in his first video message since his cancer diagnosis. According to British media reports, the message was recorded for Commonwealth Day, which is celebrated in Great Britain today, March 11th. The monarch’s video speech, which is said to have been made at Windsor Castle in February, will be part of a service at Westminster Abbey, according to Sky News.
Wishes for recovery “deeply touched” the king
The King is said to emphasize his determination to carry on despite his illness: “Over the last few weeks I have been deeply touched by your extremely kind and thoughtful wishes for my health, and in return I can only continue to serve you to the best of my ability throughout the Commonwealth.”
The monarch was diagnosed with an unspecified “form of cancer” during hospital treatment for an enlarged prostate in January. At the beginning of February, the royal family made the illness public. According to the report, palace sources said Charles was “in good spirits and determined to do as much work as possible behind the scenes.” However, the doctors advised him not to attend any public appointments.
Queen Camilla represents Charles
The King will therefore not attend the Commonwealth Day service. His wife, Queen Camilla (76), will represent him. Other members of the royal family are also expected, including heir to the throne Prince William (41). He also withdrew from the public eye after his wife Princess Kate (42) underwent abdominal surgery in January. Prince Edward (60) with his wife, Duchess Sophie (59), and Princess Anne (73) are also scheduled to take part in the Commonwealth service.