I'm spending the weekend with family and have been largely offline. I skimmed through Twitter this morning and saw photos of King Charles and Queen Camilla, waving and smiling as they made their stroll to St. Mary Magdalene church this morning. Very much business as usual, I thought. An encouraging sign, following a three-night stay at the London Clinic for an enlarged prostate. Over the course of January, amidst two royal hospitalisations, I think it's correct to say, the general feeling was one of "routine" with the King. We've all been far more worried about the Princess of Wales, who spent thirteen nights at the London Clinic following "abdominal surgery". The King left via the front door -- in an act he was widely praised for -- ensuring the spotlight was on him, the cameras had their "shot", therefore allowing Kate to exit privately. With that said, you can imagine my complete shock when I read a Buckingham Palace statement confirming His Majesty has cancer.
It's a wholly unexpected development and deeply worrying news. I know there were plans for a packed year for the King, filled with visits up and down the country, and indeed tours all over the world. The mere idea 2024 would see two senior royals out of action, followed by this diagnosis for the King, is truly something I never dreamt of. The church photos from this morning take on an additional meaning now, the very definition of "keeping calm and carrying on". A visual message to the nation, perhaps, ahead of what will prove to be a rigorous programme of treatment.
The aforementioned mentioned Buckingham Palace statement continued with the King's wish to be open and transparent about his health: "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." Whilst seeking to reassure the public: "He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible." It's important to note this level of disclosure from a monarch regarding their health is unprecedented in the UK.
The type of cancer and its stage have not been revealed, and I would expect that information to remain private. The immediate focus will be rightfully on the King's treatment. He will be stepping back from public-facing duties for the time being, though. With duty always at the very forefront of his mind, he will attend to his red boxes and other important affairs when required. Before the news was shared publicly, Charles personally informed immediate family members, including his sons William and Harry. William is in Windsor with Kate and the children while the Princess recovers. It's been widely reported the Duke of Sussex plans to fly to the UK from California tomorrow.
Queen Camilla was a constant visitor to the London Clinic during her husband's stay. She will be by his side as he begins out-patient treatment and focuses on his health over the next several months. Camilla has been keeping a busy schedule of engagements and intends to continue with her full scheduled programme as the King undergoes treatment. Earlier this week, Camilla opened a new cancer centre in her capacity as president of Maggie's, which will provide expert care and support for free for those with cancer and their loved ones.
Camilla will be ploughing on with her work, as will the Princess Royal, and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, however it now falls to William, as heir and Prince of Wales to step in for essential events. The timing, with Kate recovering, is unfortunate to say the least, but it is now incumbent upon William as his father's "liege man of life and limb", and ultimately as future king, to assume his father's essential diary commitments. William, who has been off duties since Kate's surgery, was scheduled to undertake a couple of engagements on Wednesday. It will now be a case of looking at the King's diary, investitures, liaising with No. 10 and being very much on hand when needed. For now, a raft of overseas (a great deal of Commonwealth travel) will need to be postponed for the King and discussions had internally on deputising others. I've long felt the British way of monarchs undertaking such arduous and exhausting schedules so far into retirement age is simply an unsustainable situation with far too much expectation which simply doesn't allow for the toll it takes. Charles's schedule over the past year has been dizzying. Following the recent abdication of Queen Margrethe in Denmark, I do believe it's a model we're going to see with future generations.
Kate, who is not expected to resume duties until at least April, will be surrounded by the Middleton family, Nanny Maria, and of course dedicated care from a trusted medical team. We've had no further official update, though it's been said repeatedly Kate may opt to share more details in due course. I imagine she's just happy to be back at home with the children.
Scenes outside Buckingham Palace tonight.
I was watching BBC Newsnight, and host Victoria Derbyshire remarked Charles is now part of the "cancer community". A close family friend was diagnosed last autumn, and the impact it has on a family as a whole is shattering. The uncertainty, the fear, the challenges various treatments present. I sincerely wish the King a full and speedy recovery. I know we'll all be thinking of him and the entire family as they navigate a trying time. I'll leave you with a look at the cover of The Times.
If you would like to learn more about Maggie's - Everyone's Home of Cancer Care, or support their work, please click here. I know many of you have been impacted by cancer, and continue to be. I'm thinking of each of you tonight.
Thank you for posting, Charlotte. I continue to think of you and wish you well. What a terrible time of it the Royal Family have had of late. I very much hope the King's cancer was caught early and proves treatable.
ReplyDeleteCharlotte, I so agree with you that monarchs should be able to retire from very busy schedules and spend their later years with less stress, both physical and mental.
ReplyDeleteOne reason for Charles to stay out of the public during treatment is to avoid having his immune system further tested by strangers.
I'm very happy that he called Harry -- apparently personally. I'm also pleased to hear Harry and his family have had communications before this. I definitely hope the diagnosis is not terminal and perhaps it will be a lesson in what is important.
And I'm sure this has been a shock for all in the UK. First Sarah, then the uncertainty of Kate, then Charles, and Charles again. :(
I was shocked myself, I happened to be waiting for the news at 6 to start. I feel very sorry for the King have to step back to deal with this. He loves to work and has waited so long to become King. Queen Camilla has really stepped up these last few weeks. It's good to know she will carry on as normal with her diary. I found it interesting that it was announced a few hours before the statement that Prince William will be back at work on Wednesday and Wednesday night. I'm sure he wanted to spend as much time as possible looking after his Wife but duty calls. We will be seeing a lot more of The Prince of Wales in the weeks and months ahead. I'm not sure how it works but I would imagine all duties for the crown will be put before any of The Prince of Wales commitments. I think it is good that Prince Harry is on his way to see his Father. It is sad that it has taking this news for this to happen . Unfortunately it's like that for a lot of family's. Hopefully it will be the first step for them. Wishing King Charles a quick recovery, he really does come across as a kind and gentle soul with a great understanding of nature. S.🙂.
ReplyDeleteWhen I saw this announcement, I thought, "Oh, dear. This is already not the royal family's year, is it?" Between the Princess of Wales's surgery, the King's surgery and the discovery of his cancer, and even the Duchess of York's malignant melanoma, you might be tempted to conclude that the gods (or whoever) must be angry for some reason.
ReplyDeleteHowever, we'll hope that this cancer was caught early enough for treatment to be very effective. I actually would NOT expect the type of cancer to remain private, since the King seemed to grasp, when it came to his prostate issues, that being open and transparent could have a beneficial effect on public awareness. If this is, say, colorectal (bowel) or bladder cancer, a public discussion of symptoms to watch for could also raise awareness of that disease.
Having recently helped a much-loved close relative through his cancer surgery, I feel for the royal family and its fears and concerns at this time. This news should remind us all that that the royals are merely human, like everyone else, and that life for them is as utterly unpredictable for them as it is for us. The long reign of Queen Elizabeth perhaps lulled us into imagining that her descendants might prove as apparently impervious to the passage of time as she seemed to be, until shortly before her end. Perhaps we'd be better off doing as the people of the Middle Ages -- and even later, of the Renaissance and Baroque periods -- did, when they commissioned and contemplated works of artists and writers that often explored the theme of mortality and reminded everyone how fleeting and fragile life was, even for the richest and most privileged members of society.
Golden lads and girls....
My father was diagnosed a few years ago with an incurable cancer. It was a rough year prior to his passing, but somehow none of it was worse than the initial tests. It was such an emotional time with the shock and worry. My thoughts are with His Majesty and with the whole family, regardless of the type or stage of the cancer.
ReplyDeleteVery sad and disturbing news. Prayers that treatment goes well.
ReplyDeleteI had major abdominal surgery last year so if anyone is wondering what Kate’s doing, she’s mostly lying in bed with her entertainment of choice. She can move about the house if needed, but she’ll be staying flat most of the time. I’m concerned about the King. I’m suspicious that it’s much worse than they’re letting on, especially as some types of cancer have a much worse prognosis, and they haven’t told us the type. And all the more so if it’s true that Prince Harry is flying in. Hoping for the best.
ReplyDeleteIt was such a shock to read the news on the Internet. I'm thinking of him, Camilla, the Waleses and the entire family. I know he'll have the best care possible and I see hope in the fact that he is a "trouper" (I do hope this is not an offensive word in such a situation). My father had bowel cancer when he was 70 and after an operation and a radiation therapy, he lived on until the age of 88. I'm not making any comparisons as I know each case is unique and every patient is different; this is just what came to my mind as I was absorbing the news. It must be extremely difficult for William now who has been worrying about Kate and supporting the kids; I do hope he'll have a lot of support from all his close people - he will need it. Zora from Prague
ReplyDeleteGod please grant all those with cancer healing and comfort for symptoms both physical and emotional. May patients and their loved ones have strength and support from each other, those around them, and you Lord.
ReplyDeleteAmen and Amen.
DeleteOh Dawn, what a lovely prayer! This only endears me more to the depth of caring and giving from so many on this blog, it is uplifting. Amen!
DeleteAmen!!
DeleteDear Charlotte & hello friends, it’s been many months since I last posted, and I’m happy to say in the last few days, I’ve finally began to feel a little bit better and feel well enough to write a few words. My dear husband woke me up in the early hours of this morning, with the breaking news of The King. I truly felt like I was reliving the past 18 months, and you’re so right Charlotte, the moment you receive that phone call, your families whole world tilts on its axis. To hear the words, “I’m so sorry, but you have cancer” is like a knife through your heart. Fear, uncertainty and overwhelming emotions affect the entire family, and continue to do so from that day forward. For all of us who have heard those words, the days ahead become a new world of doctors appointments, pathology reports, CT & PET scans, surgical intervention and treatment regimes. Your world is filled with fear & bravery, the unknown & the new normal. I admire the Kings honesty & transparency and deeply hope his cancer has been caught early enough and his treatment regime is not too debilitating. I have been so grateful for this blog over the past months. I have read every post, and every comment, and whilst I wasn’t well enough to post, it was a joy to read. The great news is that my Breast Cancer is in remission, and my treatment has finished, with the exception of my daily cancer medication. My husbands Throat Cancer is also in remission, and he’s doing well. He had a scare in October with an enlarged Prostate, and had the same surgery as The King. He was off work for 8 weeks, but is so much better now.
ReplyDeleteI’m sending my love & prayers to The King, The Princess & The Duchess of York and their families… may they all know that they are loved & we wish them healthier & happier days ahead. Life is precious and every day is to be cherished. Take care everyone, sending lots of love from Australia xx
Dear Dee, I'm so happy to read your comment once again! Thank you for sharing your good news with us. You are such a brave, resilient person and also such a compassionate soul! And you are absolutely right: every day is a gift. Thank you and all the best to you and yours! 🩵Zora from Prague
DeleteI’m so happy to read about your remission Dee ! !! And that your Husband is doing well. For me , the uncertainty took more of an emotional toll than surgery and appointments. I’m an ovarian cancer survivor.
DeleteHi Dee, I'm so glad you and your husband are doing okay. Sending you both best wishes as you continue your recovery.
DeleteOh Dee, that you for sharing this wonderful news of your remission! All good wishes for continued good health for both you and your hubby. I will look forward to seeing you post your comments on this blog once more. You were missed. cheers, Dorry aka colvinkiwi
DeleteOh Dee, it's so wonderful to see your smiling face & hear your positive update! Good to know you have been checking in & reading. Sending healing hugs your way, for both you & hubby! :) xoxo
DeleteThank you for taking the time to post and give us an update on your progress and that of your husband. All the best wishes to you both as you recover and regain your strength.
DeleteThank you so much everyone for your sweet words. I’m so happy to be back & feeling a bit brighter. My best news is that we’re planning a trip to London & Paris in September for my birthday on the 29th! Here’s to a cup of tea at Buckingham Palace, then off to the Tower of London to see the Crown Jewels & Windsor Castle for the weekend. Fingers crossed for a year of good health on both sides of the pond. xx
Deleteso happy to hear you and your husband are doing ok. I lost my mom to breast cancer xmas eve 2021 so I know the hell of this disease. praying for the king and you Dee
DeleteWhile this is terrible news, and I pray for the King's recovery, I am very thankful that he is ultimately with Queen Camilla, who is clearly the true love of his life. She is so wonderfully supportive and duty-focused. She has proven to be the stuff of real royalty - keeping calm and carrying on. Praying for all of them - from the USA with love.
ReplyDeleteI too found myself being so thankful, that the King has Camilla by his side. Were he not to have remarried, after Diana's death... it would be a very different situation. I was very devoted to Diana & was begrudgingly tolerant of Camilla, all these years... however, I can't imagine him being without her now! She is truly carrying the heaviest load... as The Queen & as his wife!! Who knew!??? Life is funny that way!
DeleteI'm thinking that Harry's rushed visit is to see his father before he starts therapy and cannot be in the public. I saw that Beatrice and her husband visited today. I wish Meghan could have gone but this way Harry can visit without worry; I can't imagine how she could handle going after the funeral.
ReplyDeleteAnyway, so much speculation, but there seem to be a few very treatable cancers that could be involved, so hopefully Charles will be OK soon.
Not much to say except to hope for a good recovery.
ReplyDeleteHearing the news yesterday was a shock, especially since in France we were told at the same time that Harry was hurrying to arrive. This inevitably brought back terrible memories.
On the other hand, I tell myself that the King did well to undergo his surgery, which surely allowed him to detect his cancer early enough.
The transparency about his state of health is still remarkable, it must not be so easy to publicly accept his illness. I hope that the press will be able to show empathy and will not relay images if they are not to the advantage of the King. I wish him a good recovery.
Thank you, Charlotte, for this lovely coverage of a sad and worrying situation. My heart goes out to the members of the British Royal Family as they navigate this new challenge and to the King with hopes and prayers for better health.
ReplyDeleteI have no words to say how sorry I am, hope everything goes well and as the late Queen said, we will meet again.
ReplyDeleteD
I heard Edward has stepped back too. Is this true Charlotte?
ReplyDeleteWilliam most certainly should be back at work and doing his duty as the first in line to throne. The children are at school 8 hours a day. There’s no excuse he cannot step up to the plate a few hours a day. Let’s all be reasonable.
I haven't heard anything concrete about Edward. He's been incredibly busy, both at home and abroad.
DeleteIt's simply a shocking start to 2024 for the royal family.
Who are we to know what William has and has not been doing. The callousness of these comments are unfortunate. I was diagnosed with cancer and started dense dose chemo at the same time my father was diagnosed with dementia and my daughter started 1st grade. Making matters worse, my husband was facing cuts at work. These stacked events put any normal person in a spin. And, I avoided certain family members who thought it their right to post my life on Facebook. We retreated to our micro world of safe people. William has a great weight on his shoulders. Let's extend a little grace!
DeleteI think it is eminently reasonable, in the absence of any concrete information about what Catherine’s medical issue was or is, to give William the benefit of the doubt at this time. It’s been less than a month since his wife’s surgery and we have no idea what the physical impact of it was on her. And of course he is also now personally dealing with his father’s cancer diagnosis and a prognosis that we are not privy to. To expect him to immediately take on all the King’s duties in these circumstances and to already level criticism that he is not “stepping up to the plate” only a few days after the news seems unfair and even a bit callous. I’m sure he will support the King as much as he possibly can while still trying to fulfill his responsibilities to his wife and family.
DeleteI couldn't agree more. There for the grace of God go I. People should be glad they are not having to deal with what Prince William is at the moment. His wife recovering from surgery, now his father has cancer. Let alone that daunting thought of stepping up to the top job. I don't think that is something he wants right now. Be in no doubt, The Prince of Wales will step up and do his duties. I don't think the Kings full diary will be covered but anything relating to official or royal business, he will be there for his Father. He looked well and happy last night at the air ambulance event and staying longer than planned which I think is a good sign of how the Princess of Wales is doing. Some good news for him tonight for a change. Earthshot has raised 22 million in the last 9 months. Well done Prince William. S.🙂.
DeleteLong time follower but rarely comment! This is such shocking news and unfortunate timing with Kate in recovery. I feel for William needing to step in at this time. And I can’t help think it’s disappointing what happened with Harry and Meghan. Without going into that debate, there’s no doubt their absence is being felt as the number of working royals is so slim. If things could have worked out everything would have felt a bit more stable. Nevertheless I know that William and Kate will have plenty of support during this time and I’m sure things will return to normal soon enough.
ReplyDeleteThe more I think about it, the less I feel Harry's visit is ominous. It is apparent that Charles has little free time in general and everything has to be penciled in. Harry probably just wanted to see his father before his schedule was set in stone -- it looks like he had 30 minutes before leaving Clarence House. Would have been nice to have the sort of family that welcomes you home and spends hours just hanging out together but this is not Harry's family.
ReplyDeleteI think many months down the road, Kate and Charles will be fine and back to business.
Seems like Harry's original plan of being a part-time worker would have been good here -- maybe get him and Bea and Eugenie and Zara to spend some time for a few weeks, but I guess that's not to be.
I believe the same thing about Charles and Catherine.
DeleteHe is The King, unless dealing with state business he can adjust his diary at short notice. His diary has been cleared since the announcement he was getting treatment for cancer. I view it more of a meeting than a family get together. Regardless of what it was hopefully it went well and they are able to move on.
DeleteOne doesn't even realise how much the royals come to mean in your life, you think you're just enjoying beautiful pictures and thier educative work visits, till you find yourself welling up with emotion hearing news like it, almost like a personal loved one you talk to all the time. Can't imagine how vulnerable both the King and Princess must be feeling, with such serious conditions and the glare of lights on them even though there secluded in private, they must feel the upheaval of it all. Hope they are surrounded by loving tender care as they go through this, and pray for strength, wisdom and the ability to keep going over the entire family. They'll need it ❤️
ReplyDeleteThat is so true Michelle! It is emotional news and share your sentiments as well as prayer for strength, wisdom and courage to move forward.
DeleteI’m not reading anything into Harry’s trip to see his father. It’s a normal reaction to want to be with a parent when they have a big medical challenge. I do hope the cancer is the type and at a stage where the King can recover .
ReplyDeleteMy heart goes out to the entire family but my thoughts have especially been with William and Catherine. With the longevity of her majesty Queen Elizabeth, it appeared Williams time on the throne was a long ways off. Then her steady decline at the end and death made it “one step closer”. And now only a little over a year later, the reality of the “some day” seems even closer. What a whirlwind for the Wales's emotionally as the changes to their life have been and will continue to be huge. AND…having to deal with this all in the midst of their own personal journey of surgery & upheaval makes it even harder.
ReplyDeleteWe all have times in our lives when it’s ok that the focus is on us, be it recovering from surgery or other upheaval where the attention on ourselves is not at all selfish but is necessary. I hope people in general and the media can now allow this of these very public figures. Yes, the monarchy & thus the family members “belong” to the British people & country, but they are first of all human and need to do what’s best for themselves right now. Others might think “the monarchy comes first” and former monarchs have lived that out. But I think modernizing the monarchy means letting them be humans and individuals in their own way.
Love & prayers to everyone involved!
Donna, I agree with you. And maybe modernizing means fewer people to do fewer things, which can also be OK.
DeleteDonna, that's absolutely beautifully said!!
DeleteYour words are touchingly beautiful Donna. I completely agree with you xx
DeleteDonna, you stated so beautifully what many of us are wishing here on this blog. We talk about the royals as if they are our neighbors and every so often the human aspect of their lives is often an overlooked reality. Love & prayers to all involved indeed!
DeleteThank you Charlotte for the update and for your comment Dee. Your husband's diagnosis was the same time as my husband's so I have always felt a kinship with you both. My thoughts are with the King and Queen and the Royal family. A difficult time for them to navigate in the full glare of publicity. The British prime minister has made a formal statement to the effect that The King's cancer was found in early stage which has gone some way to counter the pessimism caused by Harry's rushed visit. Harry is emotional and reactive without ever thinking through consequences. There currently is a spike in covid RSV and influenza infections, which the King does not need at this time, nor was it helpful for the world to think the King was critically and
ReplyDeleteImmediately terminally ill with the rushed well publised visit.
Libby, I imagine Harry is well vaccinated because he meets a lot of people in his activities. :) The most likely scenario is that Charles called Harry in person (as was reported) and Harry said he would like to see him (as Charles has been too busy on past trips of Harry to the US to see him). Charles probably said that he will be leaving Clarence House at such as time so Harry managed to get there and spend a few minutes. Charles is not one of those "Come to visit when you can" kind of guys!
DeleteAs far as being well-publicized, you can thank the media for making Charles' illness all about H&M! If Harry had not gone, every time he is seen from now on, there would be UK headlines that Harry can do XXXXX but can't see his father.
Libby, I quite agree. I was diagnosed with cancer at 42 and the thought of someone coming from an international trip into my "safety" bubble, no thank you. My 5-year old was required to remove her school uniform and shoes at the laundry. It was a most unnecessary visit that generated unhelpful media attention.
DeleteWe forget that Charles is actually a father. While he has not put that ahead of other duties, it is entirely possible that he wanted to see Harry! If he had not, I'm sure he would find a way, as he has for years, to be unavailable. I don't think Harry had an international germs that could not be handled by face masks, etc.
DeleteHow do we know for sure that it wasn't the king who asked to see Harry? How do we know everything that is going on? The media chasing and threatening Harry isn't his fault. Also, since when is a son coming to see his sick father considered unnecessary? We really need to step back and reflect.
DeleteHello Libby, thank you for your lovely message. We are blessed with Charlotte’s blog to have met some very special people from around the world. I’m so sorry to hear about your husbands diagnosis, what a difficult time we’ve all had. Hearing the news about The King, has felt like a family member has received their news, and it truly has unsettled me to know that he’s needing to go through Cancer treatment on top of working full time at 75 years of age. It’s a lot to go through for him, The Queen and the whole family. You’d know yourself how receiving the devastating news affects everyone in different ways, and in the blink of an eye, the life that you knew and dreamed of changes. I am feeling deeply for The Prince of Wales, I’m praying that Catherine’s medical prognosis is good news. I’m looking forward to get back to us all chatting about how gorgeous Kate looks, and how much we love her new hair cut! 😉 I miss her! Sending an Aussie hug for you & your dear husband. I’m thinking of you x
DeleteI forgot to mention Libby, I contratcted RSV whilst I was in a Private Hospital in Adelaide and having my bilateral mastectomy. I was tripled vaxxed for COVID, and caught RSV. I was so unwell with it. It was such a tough time to get through, with the surgery, then tissue expanders, cancer treatment, then the expanders removal and implants. I was almost a month in hospital between the 2 admissions, with a cough that lasted almost 4 months. Then just before Christmas, I contracted it again. Blessedly my darling husband didn’t catch it either time. He’s lost 30kg & I’ve lost 22. My prayers are with The King that he copes with his treatment as well as he can, and so many prayers that the Stage & Grade of his cancer are treatable without too many unpleasant side effects. x
DeleteThank you for sharing Charlotte! Will be keeping the whole family in my prayers. Sue from Il
ReplyDeleteWhat a shocking two months, health wise, for the family. We all certainly hope for a full recovery for King Charles, and will welcome the day, when he and Princess Kate are back attending events. In the meantime, sending healing thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteDitto Tedi! Sending healing wishes and prayers to King Charles and our lovely Princess Kate.
DeleteI'm just so very shocked and saddened by all of this. I think we all have our favorite Royal's and while Kate is certainly high up on my list, Charles isn't far behind. I'm so sad that they're both out with serious bouts of illness and wish them both a speedy recovery. I will echo what many others have said...the transparency of the King's illness really makes the silence surrounding Kate extremely concerning. I know in due time she may share more, that's her right. I just think at some point, that time will probably happen sooner rather than later because of the King's diagnosis. I know it's only speculative, but something seems quite seriously wrong with Kate and I'm hopeful that she really truly is on the mend.
ReplyDeleteWith that said, poor William. My goodness, his whole world has just turned completely upside down. I hope he is able to seek solace in close friends and family through this trying time.
Yes, this is tough. Worrying and waiting. I do not want everyone to put Charles in the grave quite yet. Perhaps I am a bit Pollyanna, but utilizing my knowledge of prostate procedures, I suspect that while the urological specialist was approaching the enlarged prostate, a polyp or some other type of abnormal looking bladder tissue was observed. I suspect a biopsy was taken and it came back positive for malignant cells. From what I know, bladder cancer, if caught early and this would certainly be early, is highly treatable and curable. Charles will certainly have the best care available to him going forward, so I am hopeful for a positive outcome, especially since he is pretty healthy to begin with!
DeleteI'll put money on it that this is just a bump in the road and he makes it well into his 80s+.
Regarding Kate, I suspect that perhaps her surgery was also uro-gynecological and it feels rather personal (like, embarrassing) to her given the symptoms she might have been experiencing. I've got a very strong suspicion that she might have had a complex structural issue with one or more reproductive organs, the bladder and possible the bowel, rectum, etc. No one is super thrilled about talking about this sort of problem, however, I agree that since these things can happen to women who have multiple babies, bigger babies and one or more quick deliveries, we might get some talk about this from Kate at a later date when she herself can laugh about it a bit herself. Unless her condition was something more serious like an abdominal aneurysm, I suspect the long hospitalization that included a separation from 3 grammar school aged kids (exposed at school during the height of flu / covid / rsv / cold season) was more about giving her time to recover and heal a bit before getting back to hugging and snuggling with her brood. Can you imagine contracting a cough after abdominal surgery? Abdominal incisions are already pretty painful and a cough on top of that would be brutal (not to mention, potentially damaging). Illness following surgery is something that should be prevented at all cost and everyone needs to keep this in mind. Kate is also a healthy person and will, most likely, bounce back pretty quickly too.
Hopefully this post is somewhat of a pep talk for fans and those who are worried :-)
I wouldn't be worried by the silence surrounding Kate. IMO it is because of different personalities, Kate is a retiring sort of person, much more contained than the King. She would hate having her health intimate details all over the world. Why should total strangers and sometimes hostile media invade her privacy? I guess she is the kind of person who doesn't speak much about her ailments even to her nearest. There is also the question of her young children to consider. Louis is certainly too young to fully understand anything else than mummy is ill, and explaining too much to the elder children would be anxiety inducing. If she made her condition public, there would be pages about it, with all kind of commentary that the children shouldn't have to hear. And they would, they go to school.
DeleteAfter my hysterectomy, it was sneezing that was the problem. You don't have to be ill to sneeze, especially in the springtime, which is when I had my surgery. I used every sneeze-squelching tactic I knew!
DeleteThank you Anon 22:09 and Natacha for your 'pep talk' and rationale! With all the news swirling around about what could possibly be wrong with Kate, your words make sense and as one who is a huge fan of Kate and William, I do hope that the news about Kate is cautious and somewhat "secondary" as far as Palace news goes to respect her privacy and to get the best recovery, and that the King's health issue is treatable and curable. Both are relatively healthy and surgery of any kind is a setback in the best of situations, so hoping that they get the healing they need.
DeleteBuckingham Palace is running communications front and center for the royals right now. Many news pieces, including ones in the usually, less gossipy Guardian, are quick to emphasize Charles’s somewhat busy schedule for an ailing king. The Guardian had several tabloid-like articles highlighting his meeting with the prime minister, and implying Charles’s benefiting from some 11 minute Canadian Air Force morning exercise routine. Camilla’s was a named source in describing Charles mountain goat like adroitness as he likes to take walks. The only mentioning of William was the brief investiture ceremony and the article was at pain to emphasize how William won’t reconcile with Harry because of Harry’s “highly personal attacks” on Oprah and in Spare. The reconciliation thing is a favorite press created narrative. Glad Harry’s visit was short in the UK and despite hundreds of press people running here and there, none could figure out what happened to Harry after his meeting with his father.
ReplyDeleteI didn’t read the tabloids or Murdoch’s’ press anymore because I got tired of wasting my money on subscriptions. The real news in TV and printed press has really been a dearth of any informative news about Kate. William will go on hiatus after today. There’s little coming out of Kensington Palace about William and Kate. Knives are still out for the Sussexes as expected. I suspect next week, the Royal Rota will be back in rehash mode and pounce on Harry’s work with Invictus when he and Meghan visit Vancouver.
My conclusion, Charles’ prognosis is good and I take heart in that with the transparency provided thus far. Kate’s situation is more worrisome because of the silence. This isn’t Kensington Palace’s normal modus operandus for the PoW’s household. Wherever Kate is, I hope she’s safe and being well cared for.
In good times, we have shared news, comments and some fun on this blog. That included King Charles’ coronation. In other events we had observed, admired, also witnessed the passing of QE II and the end of an era. It had partly been historical events and partly current affairs with Charlotte’s outstanding presentation. I wish a speedy recovery for Kate. Re: KCIII Cancer diagnosis: I wish him the patience to tolerate the treatment, complete the plan, and heal for good. What stage is in makes a difference. I am hoping it is Stage I. All best wishes to the family and Harry who made a brief visit.
ReplyDeleteAnon 15 / International in USA
I had to just chuckle at Prince William's remarks from today/tonight, that I read about in Vanity Fair.... He evidently said Catherine's being taken care of by 2 "Filipino" Nurses! I'm not a fan of the Harry/Meghan show.. but I do believe unbiased prejudice really is a thing. My Mom is from the south (USA) & she is the sweetest lady, without a truly prejudiced bone in her body... but she Always has to include the ethnicity of someone in her stories if they are anything but caucasian. I just roll my eyes (internally) when she tells me about this "lovely colored woman" she visited with that day!! I want to say (but she's in her 90's so what's the point) why couldn't she just say "I had a wonderful visit with this lovely woman today"!?
ReplyDeleteI of course immediately was like, why couldn't he have just said, "2 kind nurses"!? I wonder if I'm the only one who picked up on that? Also, it was our 1st insight into Kate's care, that she has 2 nurses taking care of her.... I hope all is well & that people leave her alone to heal & don't pick that news apart! xoxo
The woman that posted William's remarks on a social media account was awarded an MBE for her job as an overseas recruiter for the NHS so they were relevant and appropriate. I don't think all news outlets are reporting on why she was being honoured.
DeleteBecca, I don't see it like that at all! Why shouldn't he mention their nationality? It was a nice shout out to them. He would have done the same if they were Australian or Brazilian or Croatian or any other nationality. I get that it wasn't relevant during small talk at an investiture. On the other hand, it might be seen as almost political, quietly highlighting the amazing work non-British health workers are doing in the UK.
DeleteAnonymous 0:32, thank you it makes sense! I wrote a comment before I saw yours, I should have waited to have all the facts!
DeleteFilipina here. We are also citizens. As in British citizens.
DeleteThanks Anon 2:35 for that "Crucial" information!!! That makes the "Filipino" comment completely contextual!! Wow! I hope that information somehow makes the rounds!! I stand Completely Corrected!!
DeleteThank you Charlotte for removing the comment I complained about. You are a very special person, who approaches this endeavor with grace and dignity, and I appreciate your very thoughtful approach to your work.
ReplyDeleteCharlotte, it is now being said prince William is again stepping back from royal duties? Is this true? Didn’t they just say earlier this week he was going to continue his duties finally?
ReplyDeleteWhy is the palace retracting their statements?
They need a new PR team.
DeleteThe kids are on holiday. I would expect it's play it as it goes at the moment. I don't think he should have to do anything that can't be postponed for a few weeks at the moment. Hopefully the Princess of Wales recovery is going well and that will allow Prince William to return to work. He really has a lot to be dealing with the last few weeks.S.🙂.
DeletePrayers for the King, that all goes well.
ReplyDeleteHello Anon, Apparently William won't be undertaking duties for the next couple of weeks at least, due to a school break at Lambrook. We'll see how it all unfolds as I imagine everything is in a state of flux at the moment.
ReplyDeleteThat's good to hear and good for him. I'm sure there is nothing that can't be put back till a later date.. S.🙂.
DeleteS, I do agree. While we can debate whether William can do some work and we can discuss all the amazing support Kate has, there really is no reason at all that the usual business cannot just stop for a few weeks, or longer. No one believes the RF has divine rule, and they are as human as all of us. :) They will continue to be the RF even if they stop business as usual for awhile.
DeleteI have thought it would be nice to see Kate just saying hello on a zoom, but we should remember that she did not seek to be a public figure by running for an office or becoming a celebrity or pursuing a career as an actor. She does not owe us a look while she's still likely very uncomfortable. She seems to want to keep her personal space and that's just fine. I'm sure she needs to set boundaries given all the garbage that abounds in the media.
I don't know if anyone else noticed this.... but in the original statement about Kate's release, it said she was returning to "Windsor"... it did not specify "Adelaide Cottage". I have been wondering, is there any chance that she is in fact set up at "Windsor Castle"!? That would make a more spacious area for her set up, give her more quiet, but still allow her to be close enough for the children to visit.... especially wanting to keep her exposure limited, to things the kids may be exposed to at school. Thoughts!?
ReplyDeleteI did not notice this detail. You may be correct. Catherine may need to be very careful during recovery with exposure and with stair climbing ect.
DeleteInteresting. I was wondering when they originally moved there then the queen died so soon afterwards if their long-term plan may have been to move into Windsor Castle. Or maybe they really just want a house small enough to just have their family like most of us- more pricacy and less outside help. Either way, praying she gets good rest and the best possible recovery!
DeleteIt’s important here to explain why the comments about the two Filipina nurses caused a ruckus. The investiture for this is supported by the same press who want to demonize British healthcare workers and their unions for going on strike for better wages, fair treatment and SAFER patient conditions! Bringing overseas workers from poorer countries to shore up the loss of EU workers caused by xenophobic Brexit is a big problem. In Britain there’s a huge need for skilled workers. Brexit was supposed to be a goldmine for British worker and citizens. Instead, it has been an economic and social disaster. To stave off the political disaster for the ruling party, the current government thinks it can import CHEAPER, skilled workers from other countries to solve the crisis.
ReplyDeleteBut the fix isn’t fix. Instead it has backfired. For British born and British citizens who aren’t white, they suffer from backlash from their fellow citizens because people see them as foreigners and foreign strike breakers! It’s a double whammy. For foreign workers, they are exploited and need to keep their head down because they remit money back home for their families.
It’s an awful situation and abetted by much of the same British press who employs the Royal Rota.
A lot of misinformation went around about Brexit. It definitely wasn't a oven ready deal. I understand that it will get worse in the next few months. Around travel and importing and exporting flowers and fresh produce. S.🙂..
DeleteSome good news tonight. The Princess is well enough to travel to Sandringham. This is great news, the country will do her the world of good. Hopefully it is a sign that her recovery is going good for her. It will also give the King the chance to spend time with his grandchildren. Children are the best distraction you can have especially with him undergoing treatment at the moment. S.🙂.
ReplyDeleteIt’s also promising because if Charles situation would be more critical they wouldn’t expose him to the grandchildren, who go to school and therefore could bring in all sorts of infects. Even minor colds are to be avoided if you undergo hard immune affecting treatments. So all in all good signs around.
DeleteAnon @10:23 He has cancer not covid
DeleteI don't understand what point you are trying to make. Yes it's cancer, he's getting treatment. Covid can be quite serious for some people. I think the point they were making is the if the Kings health was very compromised he would not be around small children. While fighting cancer and getting treatment your immune system is compromised and you are told basically go on lockdown. The king seems to be doing well so hopefully all going good with the treatment. S.🙂.
Deleteit is very sad news. I am praying for the king and catherine
ReplyDeleteCharlotte, I apologize if this is an inappropriate question, but do you anticipate a return of your MAM blog? Thanks! SE
ReplyDeleteCharlotte, could you make an update on prince william cancelling last minute to read a speech for his god father?
ReplyDeleteI am appalled of his last minute cancelation when members of royal families all around the world flew in for this.
Why could William not show up and read a speech since this took place where he lives at the Windsor estate? This is getting old and something should be truthfully said about this matter.
Appalled, really? The statement was quite clear. He wasn't there for personal reasons, in other words we won't be saying why. The Prince of Wales is very close to the Greek Royal family. I'm sure he would of been there if he could. Might of been something as simple as a upset tummy. S.🙂.
DeleteHi all,
ReplyDeleteJust stopped by to comment about the silence from Kensington Palace. What with William canceling his attendance at his Godfather’s Memorial, I wish they would give us a hint of the overall state of things.
I just hope that Kate and the King are okay.
Hugs to all.
Hello everyone!
ReplyDeleteFirstly, I must apologise for my absence. I've been dealing with ongoing health issues over the past several months and suffered a relapse. I'm recovering well now and looking forward to getting back into the swing of blogging. I want to thank you all for your patience and understanding.
There's been no official news regarding the Princess, apart from a palace source updating reporters with "The Princess is doing well". I understand she is recovering at Windsor and will continue to do so for at least another month. As you all know, Prince William missed a service yesterday which has prompted a great deal of speculation. I understand the reporters were assured it's not due to Kate.
On another note, absolutely heartbreaking news for Lady Gabriella and the Kingston family. Thomas Kingston always came across as an engaging, warm and kind man. Gabriella found a true love match with him. I can't begin to imagine the pain she is experiencing. It's devastating news.
I'll continue to keep you updated if we hear anything concrete regarding Kate.
Thanks for the update! So sorry you are dealing with ongoing health issues! I'll pray for a full recovery for you!
DeleteGlad to hear Princess Kate is not suffering a relapse.
I understand not having time. I haven't been able to get to my blog either bc two members of my family had minor surgeries, then complications, then a virus.
Hoping the spring leads to better health for all!
Hope you are doing alright Charlotte! I know we miss your blog but glad you are getting some rest. Thank you for your work.
DeleteSorry to hear about your relapse. Get well soon. I am sure most readers were very worried about you.
DeleteDear Charlotte, I'm so very sorry to hear about you health concerns. Winging positive thoughts and healing energy your way. So many people are experiencing such challenges, let's extend grace and empathy to all, you are a role model for us all in that regard, Charlotte. Thank you!
DeleteHello Charlotte, Glad to hear that you are doing better. Since Catherine will be out of sight recovering until Easter or beyond, have you considered looking back at her outfits for the past years Easter Services? If you are up to it I think that would be an interesting post. Sending good thoughts across the ocean to the Royal Family.
DeleteI really hope you are doing well, I am more worried by your silence than by Kate's! It shows how we take for granted this wonderful blog.
DeleteDear Charlotte,
ReplyDeleteI am so very sorry to read about your health issues. Sending you loving thoughts and prayers. I have missed your posts, but look forward to a return of your thoughts. The year certainly has been challenging, health wise for so many.
Love,
Tedi
Charlotte, I'm sorry to hear that you are still not fully recovered. I hope you get well soon and I will say a prayer for you for healing. It was unusual for a member of the royal family to cancel at such short notice. The media went wild with the speculation last night. Hopefully all is well and nothing to worry about. It was sad that both Godchildren of the former King of Greece couldn't make the it to the service yesterday. Obviously Lady Gabriella for the most heartbreaking of reasons. She is a beautiful lady and they always seemed like a very happy couple, always laughing and smiling. Just very sad and more bad news for the family. S.🙂.
ReplyDeleteIs Kate supposed to return back next month or is it going to be til November when she returns back?
ReplyDeleteDear Charlotte, I Hope you are OK?I am very worried about your silence!! I am a Longtime reader of your blog...Love G
ReplyDelete