Can we be cautiously positive yet?
Yesterday, Buckingham Palace shared the sad news that King Charles has been diagnosed with a form of cancer. Understandably, we have not received many more details than that (yet), but what do we know about his diagnosis so far?
Heavy news
Just after the positive news that Charles had recovered well from his operation on a large prostate, the announcement of his cancer diagnosis came as a bolt from the blue for many. It is quite striking that the monarch has once again chosen to be so open about his health. However, the British court had a clear explanation for this: “His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to avoid speculation, and in the hope that this can support public understanding for everyone in the world affected by cancer.”
The Buckingham Palace statement did not mention which form of cancer Charles has been diagnosed with. It was stated that it was not prostate cancer. We also know that the frost already started a series of treatments yesterday.
Lots of support
After the announcement yesterday, Charles could count on support from people from all walks of life. Many well-known British people also made themselves heard. From former prime ministers to TV stars and even the leader of the anti-monarchy movement Republic: it is raining well wishes for the king.
Early stage
Current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has also responded to Charles’ diagnosis. Speaking to the BBC, he said he was “shocked and sad” by the news that the monarch is ill. Sunak also made a special statement. The Prime Minister has said that the cancer discovered in Charles was detected at an early stage. It is striking that he says this, because the court has not reported anything about the stage of the cancer. If true, that would of course be cautiously positive news.
What is also striking is that the British court writes that Charles is optimistic about his treatments. A somewhat reassuring thought, which for the time being gives us some hope in a speedy recovery.
Tasks taken over
Although it was previously announced that the king is temporarily resigning from his public duties on the advice of doctors, this does not mean that he is completely out of the running. For example, Charles will still sit down with Prime Minister Sunak every week. His other duties are shared among other members of the Royal Family. In all likelihood, Crown Prince William will be the biggest link in this, but Camilla also remains up and running.
Although we do not know everything about Charles’ diagnosis, it does seem that the king is now in good hands and that a speedy recovery is expected. A nice starting point for the future!
Source: NU.nl, RTL Boulevard, Hello! Magazine | Image: NL Image
