London
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Britain’s King Charles III provided a uncommon replace on his cancer journey in a video message on Friday night, revealing that he has responded effectively to remedy and will probably be decreased in the brand new 12 months.
Charles, 77, described the milestone in his recovery course of as “a personal blessing” earlier than hailing “the remarkable advances that have been made in cancer care in recent years.”
“Today I am able to share with you the good news that thanks to early diagnosis, effective intervention and adherence to ‘doctor’s orders,’ my own schedule of cancer treatment can be reduced in the new year,” the British monarch mentioned in a pre-filmed clip for Channel 4’s Stand Up To Cancer broadcast, which companions on its annual marketing campaign with the charity Cancer Research UK.
Charles introduced he had been diagnosed with cancer in February 2024 after present process a prostate process.
While his remedy shouldn’t be over, a spokesperson for the King instructed NCS that “His Majesty has responded exceptionally well to treatment and his doctors advise that ongoing measures will now move into a precautionary phase.”
The spokesperson added: “This position will be continuously monitored and reviewed to protect and prioritise his continued recovery.”
In his video message, which was filmed at his London residence of Clarence House in late November, Charles mirrored on studying about his prognosis. He mentioned that he is aware of it “can feel overwhelming” however that he additionally is aware of “early detection is the key that can transform treatment journeys, giving invaluable time to medical teams – and, to their patients, the precious gift of hope.”
He careworn the significance of cancer screening applications and inspired folks to utilize them to catch the illness rapidly as a result of “early diagnosis quite simply saves lives.”
“Too often, I am told, people avoid screening because they imagine it may be frightening, embarrassing or uncomfortable. If and when they do finally take up their invitation, they are glad they took part,” he defined, earlier than highlighting a brand new nationwide Screening Checker, accessible on-line in the UK.
“This simple tool allows you to check whether you are eligible for breast, bowel or cervical cancer screening. It demystifies the process, answers your questions, and guides you towards taking that crucial step.”
Charles additionally mentioned that in his personal cancer journey he has been “profoundly moved” by what he known as “the community of care” that surrounds each affected person.
He ended his message together with his “most heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, researchers and charity workers involved in diagnosis and treatment programs, together with my particular good wishes to those for whom they care so selflessly.”
Friday’s message is the newest instance of how the British sovereign has made cancer consciousness a elementary a part of his public dealing with work.
His first official engagement following his prognosis was in April final 12 months when he visited University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre in London, the place he met sufferers and clinicians.
The King’s outing got here as he was introduced as the brand new patron of Cancer Research UK. He has additionally been patron of Macmillan Cancer Support for nearly three a long time.
He additionally despatched a deeply private message to a Buckingham Palace reception in April honoring the work of cancer charities, saying regardless of the fears that cancer can deliver, it may illuminate one of the best of humanity.
Charles has been praised for his openness round his prognosis and elevating consciousness round it. Caroline Geraghty, senior data nurse at Cancer Research UK, recommended each Charles and his daughter-in-law Catherine, Princess of Wales, for sharing their experiences with the illness.
“He’s visited hospitals, he’s seen patients, he’s visited support centers. He really has kept in touch with people,” she instructed NCS. “I think he feels, and as do other people, that he’s got something in common with them. I think them telling us this also highlights the fact that anyone can get cancer. It doesn’t matter who you are.”
King Charles has not publicly disclosed the kind of cancer he has been receiving outpatient remedy for. A royal supply instructed NCS final 12 months that the type of cancer detected was not prostate cancer, however didn’t specify additional.
The spokesperson for the King instructed NCS on Friday that was as a result of “the advice from cancer experts is that, in his determination to support the whole cancer community, it is preferable that His Majesty does not address his own specific condition but rather speaks to those affected by all forms of the disease.”
It’s not but clear how for much longer Charles would require remedy; that will be a matter for his medical group to find out.
Following his prognosis final 12 months, the King briefly stepped away from public dealing with duties, although he continued to hold out state enterprise. He has since returned to a busy diary of engagements and foreign trips.
“The King has taken great comfort and encouragement from being able to continue leading a full and active life throughout his treatment, while always heeding the advice of his medical team,” his spokesperson instructed NCS.
“His ability to uphold all of his state duties, and to continue with public engagements and overseas tours, has helped greatly with the positive mindset that, as many families will know, is such a vital part of the recovery journey.”