Camilla reveals struggle over Charles’ cancer diagnosis

Queen Camilla of the United Kingdom has spoken publicly for the first time about how difficult it was initially to keep her husband King Charles’ cancer diagnosis confidential, Reuters reports.

Buckingham Palace announced in February 2024 that the British monarch was undergoing treatment for cancer, the type of which was not disclosed. Although he continues to receive treatment, the King said in December last year that, thanks to early diagnosis and effective intervention, his treatment could be reduced, CE Report quotes AGERPRES.

A week before the palace made the announcement, Camilla visited a Maggie’s cancer support center at a London hospital. In a video released Wednesday on behalf of the organization, the Queen admitted that she found it difficult not to speak about her husband’s illness.

“I remember visiting a Maggie’s center shortly after the King’s diagnosis. Nobody could reveal anything at the time, and it was quite difficult,” Camilla told Laura Lee, chief executive of Maggie’s, an organization patronized by the Queen.

“I nearly said something, but, you know, I felt it wasn’t the right time. I looked at everyone who was suffering and all the relationships, and I think that made me realize how important places like this are.”

“I longed to say something, but obviously I couldn’t.”

In the video, produced to mark the 30th anniversary of Maggie’s, Camilla also spoke about caring for her “poor husband” and how determined he was to continue working.

“Look at my husband, nothing stops him,” she said. “He said this is his way of coping with it.”

According to Maggie’s, the decision by Charles and his daughter-in-law, Catherine, Princess of Wales, to publicly disclose their cancer diagnoses and speak openly about their illnesses has had a significant impact on other cancer patients.

“The King’s openness about his diagnosis has undoubtedly helped others to be more open themselves, and now, hearing his wife’s completely understandable and natural reaction, we understand why it is so important for family and friends to also get the support they need,” Lee said.

Photo: Wikipedia