The King has spoken publicly for the first time since announcing his cancer diagnosis and thanked people for their “numerous messages of support and good wishes.”
Charles said it was “equally encouraging” to hear how sharing his diagnosis had helped promote public understanding of cancer.
In a message to the public, Charles said: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the many messages of support and good wishes I have received in recent days.
King Charles has spoken for the first time since his diagnosis was made public a week ago
(Getty Images)
“As all those who have been affected by cancer will know, those kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement,” he continued.
“It is equally encouraging to hear how sharing my own diagnosis has helped to promote public understanding and shed light on the work of all those organizations supporting cancer patients and their families across the UK and around the world.
“My lifelong admiration for their tireless care and dedication is even greater as a result of my own personal experience.
“Carlos R.”
The King and Camilla were seen leaving Buckingham Palace earlier this week.
(Reuters)
Buckingham Palace confirmed that the king, who came to the throne just 17 months ago, does not have prostate cancer, saying only that he has a “form of cancer.”
He was diagnosed after “another cause for concern was noted” and was investigated while receiving treatment for his benign enlarged prostate.
The Palace has asked that the King's privacy be respected, especially during his treatment, but said it wanted to make his diagnosis public because of his long-standing support of cancer charities.
A host of medical professionals from different groups have praised the King's candor about his health.
Chiara De Biase, director of support and influence at Prostate Cancer UK, highlighted a 500 per cent increase in the number of people turning to the charity's website for information and support in the week following the King's announcement about his enlarged prostate in January.
The king, 75, was seen in public for the first time since his cancer diagnosis on Tuesday as he left Clarence House the day after beginning his treatment, following a brief reunion with the Duke of Sussex.
Charles has postponed all his public-facing duties, but continues behind-the-scenes work on his red boxes of state documents.
The Prince of Wales could represent his father at an event, but there are no scheduled engagements at the moment and the royal palaces will make arrangements if the need arises.
Prince William returned to public duties this week, attending a gala with Tom Cruise
(Daniel Leal/PA Wire)
The King's illness coincided with the hospital stay of the Princess of Wales, who underwent planned abdominal surgery.
Earlier on Saturday, the Princess Royal attended the Six Nations rugby match between Scotland and France.
Anne, patron of Scottish rugby since 1986, greeted the players before kick-off.
Scotland lost 16-20 to France, despite dominating much of the match.
