Princess Anne, King Charles III's sister, has broken her silence following a five-day hospitalization due to head injuries and a concussion sustained during an incident at her country estate in England. The 73-year-old royal, known for her dedication to her duties, expressed her deep regret over missing a significant World War I memorial service in Canada.
In a heartfelt statement sent to the service, which honored the Newfoundland Regiment's sacrifices on the first day of the Battle of the Somme, Anne conveyed her disappointment. "It is with deep regret that I am unable to be with you today," she stated, according to The Telegraph. "I have fond memories of joining you in 2016, and I am deeply saddened that I'm unable to join you again."
The Princess Royal, who regularly undertakes the most annual engagements among working royals, was recuperating at her country home, Gatcombe Park, in Gloucestershire. Her medical incident occurred on June 23 and was made public by Buckingham Palace the following day. The palace's statement noted that Anne had sustained minor injuries and a concussion and was being kept under observation at Southmead Hospital in Bristol as a precaution.
Details about the nature of her injuries have been sparse, though it is believed that the incident involved a horse. Anne, an accomplished equestrian, became the first British royal to compete in the Olympic Games, participating in the three-day eventing at the 1976 Montreal Olympics.
During her hospitalization, the only updates on her condition came from her husband, Sir Timothy Laurence, who reassured the public that Anne was "doing fine" and that her recovery was "slow but sure." Buckingham Palace confirmed her discharge from the hospital on June 28, emphasizing that she had returned home to continue her recovery.
Anne's absence from her duties marks the latest in a series of health challenges facing the British royal family in 2024. Earlier in the year, it was disclosed that both King Charles and Princess Kate had been diagnosed with cancer. They have since resumed some public duties, although their treatment is ongoing. Additionally, Sarah "Fergie" Ferguson, the Duchess of York, announced her own cancer diagnosis.
Despite these setbacks, the royal family has shown resilience. Charles and Kate were present at the Trooping the Colour parade on June 15, underscoring their commitment to their roles despite personal health battles. Kate has publicly stated that she is not yet "out of the woods," reflecting the ongoing nature of her treatment.
Princess Anne remains one of the most popular members of the royal family. According to a YouGov poll conducted in May 2024, she is the third most popular royal, following Princess Kate and Prince William, with a 70% positive rating among the British public. Her steadfast dedication to her duties and no-nonsense approach to royal responsibilities have earned her widespread respect.
Her statement following her hospitalization highlights her continued commitment to her role. "I send you my warmest best wishes on this special day of commemoration," Anne wrote to the attendees of the Newfoundland Regiment memorial service, reiterating her sadness at not being able to participate in person.
As Anne continues her recovery, it remains unclear when she will return to her regular schedule of engagements. She is reportedly taking advice from her medical team to ensure a safe and full recovery before resuming her duties.
Known for her resilience and tireless work ethic, Anne's temporary withdrawal from public life is a rare occurrence. "She just gets on with it," said Dickie Arbiter, Queen Elizabeth's former press spokesman, describing Anne's typical approach to her royal duties. "Often carrying out multiple engagements in one day."
