King Charles Personally Shared Cancer Diagnosis with Prince Harry, Prince William and Family
Buckingham Palace announced that the King is undergoing cancer treatment just weeks after having a procedure for an enlarged prostate
King Charles personally informed Prince William, Prince Harry and other family members of his cancer diagnosis.
It’s understood that the King, 75, personally shared the news with his sons and three siblings — Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward — before Buckingham Palace made the public announcement on Monday.
A source close to Prince William, 41, says that he is in close contact with his father, and it's understood that Prince Harry, 39, will travel to the U.K. to see his father in the coming days.
Related: King Charles, 75, Announces Cancer Diagnosis, Postpones All Future Engagements for Now
The monarch's cancer news comes shortly after he was treated for an enlarged prostate. However, he does not have prostate concert.
“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," the palace said.
"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," they continued.
"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," the statement added. "His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”
King Charles returned to London from Sandringham on Monday to commence treatment as an out-patient.
The monarch had stepped away from public duties amid his recovery from prostate surgery, and it's not known when he will return to royal engagements given his cancer diagnosis. PEOPLE understands he will continue to receive red boxes, the monarch's daily delivery of documents needing his attention, and process state documents during his treatment.
There are currently no plans to appoint Counsellors of State to act on King Charles' behalf.
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The news came the day after King Charles attended church at St. Mary Magdalene Church near Sandringham with Queen Camilla. The Sunday service marked the monarch's first outing since leaving the hospital on Jan. 29 following a three-day stay after his prostate procedure.
On Jan. 17, Buckingham Palace announced that the sovereign was seeking treatment for an enlarged prostate.
“In common with thousands of men each year, The King has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate. His Majesty's condition is benign and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure,” the palace statement said. “The King’s public engagements will be postponed for a short period of recuperation.”
King Charles disclosed his diagnosis in hopes that it would inspire men to get checked, and his decision proved to make an impact. After his announcement, there was a 1,000% increase in searches about prostate enlargement on the U.K.’s National Health Service website.
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