Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, aged 84, has been released from the Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen after a severe fall at Fredensborg Castle causing significant injuries. The royal household reported the accident led to damage to her neck vertebrae and a broken left hand.
Following her fall on September 18, 2024, the Queen had remained under hospital care until recently. She is currently recuperating at her home in Fredensborg. Her recovery, however, is anticipated to be prolonged. The royal family announced that her left hand has been cast, and she’ll be wearing a rigid neck collar for the next few months due to her injuries.
As a consequence of the fall, numerous public engagements were canceled and Queen Margrethe will be out of public view for an indefinite period. The royal family issued a statement reassuring her well-being and positive spirits, though acknowledging recovery will take time.
King Frederik X of Denmark gave an update on his mother’s health, expressing relief over her recovery process, despite requiring a substantial period for rest and rehabilitation. The 55-year-old King conveyed his gratitude towards the people of Denmark for their support and good wishes, and also acknowledged the dedicated hospital staff for their unwavering care.
Earlier this year, Queen Margrethe had made headlines by relinquishing the throne due to health issues, marking the first voluntary abdication by a Danish monarch in almost 900 years. The Queen, after a 52-year reign, cited health problems as the reason for stepping down, including recent back surgery and other health challenges over the past few years. During her New Year’s address, she had acknowledged the impact of aging on her ability to rule.
Queen Margrethe is renowned for her resilience and dedication to her country, maintaining a full schedule throughout her reign that spanned over five decades. However, her deteriorating health led to multiple medical procedures, including the aforementioned back surgery, which ultimately influenced her decision to abdicate in favor of her son, King Frederik X.
Her fall and subsequent hospitalization have elicited widespread concern across Denmark, where she continues to be an esteemed figure. While her abdication came as a surprise to many, her ongoing role as the King’s mother has brought comfort to the nation. There has been significant public interest in her health, particularly following her back surgery earlier this year.
It is expected that Queen Margrethe will continue her recovery at Fredensborg Castle, located north of Copenhagen. The royal household has not given any details about when or if the Queen will resume any official duties. Given her current health condition, it is anticipated that the Queen will prioritize her rehabilitation in the coming months.
