LONDON: Britain’s King Charles III on Saturday expressed his “heartfelt thanks” to all well-wishers, in what is his first statement since being diagnosed with cancer.
In a public message, the 75-year-old monarch said that it was “equally encouraging” to hear how sharing his diagnosis had helped to promote understanding of the condition.
“I would like to express my most heartfelt thanks for the many messages of support and well wishes I have received over the past few days,” Charles wrote.
“As all who have been affected by cancer know, such kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement.”
The note was posted on the monarch’s website and the royal family’s official page on social media platform X.
“It is equally encouraging to hear how sharing my own diagnosis has helped to promote public understanding and shine a light on the work of all those organizations who support cancer patients and their families in the UK and around the world.”
“My lifelong admiration for their tireless care and dedication is all the greater because of my own personal experience,” the king added, signing the letter “Charles R.”
Buckingham Palace announced on Monday that Charles had been diagnosed with cancer and had begun treatment and taken a break from public duties.
He did not specify the type of cancer, although it is understood not to be prostate cancer.
The diagnosis comes just 17 months into Charles’ reign following the death of his 96-year-old mother, Queen Elizabeth II, on September 8, 2022.
