Camilla admits it was 'difficult' to keep King's cancer diagnosis a secret

Queen Camilla has spoken candidly about the emotional challenge of concealing King Charles III's cancer diagnosis during the initial stages of his treatment. In a video marking the 30th anniversary of Maggie's cancer charity, for which she serves as president, the Queen recounted the pressure of maintaining secrecy while interacting with cancer patients and their families.

“

Nobody could say anything at the time, that was quite difficult. I almost said something but, you know, I felt that it wasn't the time to say.

During a visit to a new Maggie's cancer support center at London's Royal Free Hospital in January 2024, the Queen had recently learned of the King's cancer and upcoming treatment. Despite this, she felt compelled to withhold the information until the official public announcement. "Nobody could say anything at the time, that was quite difficult. I almost said something but, you know, I felt that it wasn't the time to say," she shared with Dame Laura Lee, the chief executive of Maggie's.

Reflecting on the experience, Queen Camilla expressed a strong desire to share the news, stating, "I was just longing to let it out, but obviously I couldn't." The King's cancer diagnosis was publicly revealed on February 5, 2024, shortly after her hospital engagement. He continues to receive treatment, with Buckingham Palace confirming his health is progressing in a "positive direction."

“

I was just longing to let it out, but obviously I couldn't.

In the recorded message, the Queen noted the King's determination to continue with his official duties, describing his approach as, "Nothing stopped him. He just said, 'This is my way. I'm going to cope with it.'" Her visit to the cancer support center made her more aware of the shared experiences of many families, deepening her understanding of the importance of such support facilities. The King's openness about his diagnosis has reportedly led to a 12% increase in men contacting Maggie's with a cancer diagnosis, highlighting the impact of his public disclosure.

“

Nothing stopped him. He just said, 'This is my way. I'm going to cope with it.'