King Charles issues first public statement since being diagnosed with cancer

King Charles has issued his first public statement since being diagnosed with cancer.

Buckingham Palace announced the 75-year-old monarch’s diagnosis on Monday (5 February), confirming that he is undergoing a treatment plan.

Due to this, his public duties have been postponed – so we won’t be seeing him out and about making his visits for a little while – but he’ll carry on working in private.

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The King’s cancer diagnosis followed a recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement.

The Palace hasn’t confirmed what type of cancer the monarch has, but did clarify that it’s not prostate cancer.

Despite his break from public duties, King Charles issued a public statement to Grenada yesterday to mark their 50^th year of Independence.

He apologised that couldn’t ‘be with you in person’ to celebrate as he sent his ‘congratulations and warmest wishes. Oh, and he also seemed gutted to not be able to tuck into the national dish, a stew referred to as Oil Down.

The King’s full statement read: “Over these past five decades, I have watched with the deepest admiration as you have built your nation and forged Grenada's distinct place in the world, and as an essential member of our Commonwealth family.

“Together, you have established Grenada as an exemplar of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Together, you have risen to the most critical challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss by offering the world an example of leadership, resilience and innovation. Together, you have given life to the words of your national anthem: ‘Aspire, build, advance!’

“My wife and I hold such special memories of our visit to your beautiful 'Spice Island' five years ago, and of the warm and touching welcome you extended to us."

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Then, as whenever I have met Grenadians anywhere in the world, I was struck by your resilience, the strength of your community and by your shared determination to make a positive difference.

“In this Grenadian spirit you can take the greatest pride. Whether through the remarkable contributions of Grenada's artists, musicians and authors, or the triumphs of your athletes, al1 of whom have enjoyed such extraordinary success, '473 to the World' is an inspiration to us all.

“I can only say how sorry I am that I cannot be with you in person to mark this momentous milestone, and to enjoy a little Oil Down with you all! My thoughts are with everyone across Grenada, Carriacou and Petit Martinique, and all those in the Grenadian diaspora – ‘one people, one family’ - as you celebrate everything you have achieved and all that your future holds. My family join me in sending our heartfelt congratulations to you all.”

Prince William spoke out about his father’s diagnosis for the first time yesterday, thanking everyone for their ‘kind messages’.