King Charles delivered his most personal public remarks since being diagnosed with cancer, addressing guests at a Buckingham Palace reception Wednesday evening dedicated to raising awareness of cancer care across the United Kingdom. Speaking alongside Queen Camilla and joined by cancer survivors, volunteers, researchers, and the parents of the late campaigner Dame Deborah James, the monarch candidly acknowledged the emotional toll of his diagnosis while highlighting the compassion of those working in the sector.
"Each diagnosis, each new case, will be a daunting and at times frightening experience for those individuals and their loved ones," Charles said. "But as one among those statistics myself, I can vouch for the fact that it can also be an experience that brings into sharp focus the very best of humanity."
Charles was diagnosed in February following treatment for an enlarged prostate. Additional tests revealed a form of cancer, and he has since been undergoing weekly treatment in a London hospital. Despite his health challenges, the King resumed public duties in April and reportedly told aides he is "keen to make up for lost time."
Addressing the reception, Charles observed that 390,000 people in the UK receive a new cancer diagnosis annually-over 1,000 a day. "That is over 1,000 new cases every single day," he stated.
The event brought together figures from Macmillan Cancer Support, Breast Cancer Now, Children's Hospice South West, and Maggie's, all of which have long been supported by the royal family. The King and Queen, along with the Duchess of Gloucester, personally welcomed guests, including radio host Adele Roberts, actor Richard E. Grant, and television personality Ashley Cain.
Charles emphasized the "profound impact of human connection," saying, "Whether in the careful explanation from a specialist nurse, the hand held by a hospice volunteer, or the shared experience in a support group... these moments of kinship create what I might call a 'community of care.'"
The monarch also reflected on the comfort he and the Princess of Wales-who also received a cancer diagnosis last year-found in supporting one another through their respective treatments. A palace source said Charles' condition remains "managed" and continues to "move in a positive direction," as evidenced by his "very full national and international diary programme."
Charles took the opportunity to express deep appreciation for the nation's cancer care infrastructure. "To all the researchers pursuing pioneering breakthroughs; to the healthcare professionals providing specialist treatment; to the volunteers offering comfort, or campaigning to raise awareness; and to the fundraisers enabling all this vital work-you have my whole family's deepest admiration and gratitude," he said.
He ended his speech by quoting Dame Deborah James, whose legacy was honored throughout the evening: "Find a life worth enjoying; take risks; love deeply; have no regrets; and always, always have rebellious hope." The monarch added, "I am so very grateful for all that you do."
