King Charles shared a personal message about his ongoing cancer journey during a reception at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday, April 30. The event brought together individuals involved with community-based cancer organizations and provided the king an opportunity to reflect on his experiences since his diagnosis in January 2024.
In his message, printed in a booklet for attendees, King Charles spoke about the emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis. “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,” he remarked.
The king highlighted that each year about 390,000 people in the UK receive cancer diagnoses, translating to over 1,000 new cases daily. He acknowledged the daunting nature of such news but emphasized that his experience has revealed significant acts of compassion and support.
King Charles expressed gratitude to researchers, healthcare professionals, volunteers, and fundraisers who assist cancer patients and their families. He underscored the importance of human connection throughout the cancer journey, be it through explanations from specialists, compassion from hospice volunteers, or shared experiences in support groups.
The monarch noted that he and Queen Camilla have recognized the importance of these connections, which create a “community of care” that supports patients during challenging times. He suggested that this community offers crucial emotional and practical support when needed most.
In a poignant moment, Charles paid tribute to the late Dame Deborah James, a BBC podcast host and columnist who died of bowel cancer in June 2022 at age 40. He described Dame Deborah as “an inspiration to us all, in sickness and in health” and quoted her parting words to those who may be facing a cancer diagnosis now or in the future.
“Find a life worth enjoying; take risks; love deeply; have no regrets; and always, always have rebellious hope,” he quoted, echoing Dame Deborah’s influential philosophy.
Dame Deborah’s parents, Heather and Alistair James, attended the palace reception. Her mother expressed mixed emotions about meeting the king and queen, while wishing her daughter could have been there. She took pride in her daughter’s legacy and the impact of the Bowelbabe fund, which has raised over $21 million for cancer research.
The reception highlighted the work of various cancer support organizations. Groups presented their initiatives such as Move Dance Feel, which unites women affected by cancer through dance, Rainbow Boxes, which provides practical items for people starting cancer treatment, and Wigs for Heroes, supporting those undergoing treatment.
Notable attendees included radio presenter Adele Roberts, former footballer Ashley Cain, actor Richard E. Grant, and Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, who has also received cancer treatment. The event underscored the royal family’s commitment to supporting cancer awareness and treatment initiatives.
King Charles was diagnosed with an unspecified form of cancer in January 2024, following a procedure for an enlarged prostate. While Buckingham Palace has not publicly disclosed his prognosis, royal sources indicate his treatment is progressing positively, as evidenced by his full schedule of national and international engagements.
In March 2025, the king required a brief hospital stay after experiencing temporary side effects following a routine cancer treatment. Despite these challenges, he has maintained an active role in royal duties, including a state visit to Italy in April.
Queen Camilla recently commented on how the king’s work sustains him during his treatment. During their trip to Italy in early April, she noted that he loves his work and it keeps him going. She observed that as he recovers, he wants to do more and more, adding that helping others is what drives him. When asked about the possibility of reducing his workload, the queen quipped, “Dream on.”
The king’s message comes after a challenging period for the royal family’s health. His daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, was also diagnosed with cancer in February 2024. She underwent chemotherapy treatment last summer and announced in September that she was cancer-free. She is currently in remission.
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams described the king’s message as “extraordinarily moving” and predicted it would be “heard around the world.” He noted that by using the word “frightening” to describe his experience, Charles had communicated the difficulties and fears associated with a cancer diagnosis in a deeply personal way.
Through his candid reflection on his cancer journey, King Charles has not only provided insight into his personal experience but also offered encouragement to others facing similar challenges. His message emphasizes the importance of community, compassion, and hope in the face of serious illness.
