Prince Harry breaks silence on father King Charles' cancer diagnosis for first time
Prince Harry has broken his silence on his father's cancer diagnosis for the first time.
The Duke of Sussex flew back to the UK from his home in the US last Tuesday (6 February) to be with his dad, King Charles, after news of his cancer diagnosis broke.
The King shared the news with the world via a statement from Buckingham Palace, which revealed that he would be postponing public duties while he receives treatment.
The statement read: “During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer.
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“His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties. Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake state business and official paperwork as usual.
“The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure. He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.”
It went on to say that Charles had made the decision to make his diagnosis public in ‘the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer’ as well as to ‘prevent speculation’.
Prince Harry reportedly had a brief meeting with his father at Clarence House on Tuesday, before embarking on the 5,000-mile journey home the following day (7 February) after a whirlwind 26-hour trip.
He did not publicly address Charles health woes at the time, but he is now opening up about his feelings in a bombshell Good Morning America interview which was announced earlier today (16 February).
The short 15-second trailer shows the Duke of Sussex discussing his 'life with Meghan, how his father King Charles is doing and his passion for supporting wounded warriors'.
In the snippet, Prince Harry said of his father's diagnosis: "The fact I was able to get on a plane and see him and spend any time with him - I'm grateful for that.
"Through all these families I see on a day-to-day basis the strength of the family unit coming together. Any illness, any sickness brings family together."
His latest interview will air at some point later today and will be broadcast on ABC, although the channel is not available for Brits.
However, you can tune in to the live broadcast on the ABC News channel on YouTube.
The King has been flooded with well-wishes following the announcement of his diagnosis, including several from leading cancer charities and organisations.
Doctor Jay Verma, president of the GP section at the Royal Society of Medicine, thanked the King for raising awareness about cancer.
He said: “We wish His Majesty a speedy recovery and success in his treatment for cancer.
“We have made leaps and bounds in our cancer treatment and survival rates, and the earlier a problem is diagnosed, the more options there are for treatment.
“We would also like to thank His Majesty for using his unique position in highlighting how cancer is indiscriminate in who it affects and that there should be no shame or embarrassment in coming forward to seek help and advice.
“The NHS has a system of cancer screenings and if you receive a communication saying you are due for an appointment, it is vital you make an appointment. It could save your life.
“If you have any symptoms which cause you concern, you should get in contact with your GP practice.
“Please don’t be shy – the more information we have the better to help – hopefully – rule out cancer or, if not, put you on the most suitable treatment pathway.”
Topics: King Charles III, Prince Harry, Royal Family, UK News, Cancer, Health
Claire Reid