King Charles, 76, Briefly Hospitalized, Cancels Engagements Due to Side Effects of Cancer Treatment

King Charles has canceled a series of scheduled events due to briefly being hospitalized following routine cancer treatments.

The 76-year-old King Charles, who publicly announced his cancer diagnosis in February 2024, was hospitalized at The London Clinic “following scheduled and ongoing medical treatment for cancer this morning,” Buckingham Palace said in a statement shared with PEOPLE on Thursday, March 27.

“The King experienced temporary side effects that required a short period of observation in [the] hospital,” the statement continued.

King Charles’ events scheduled for Thursday afternoon were postponed.

He is now recovering at Clarence House, Buckingham Palace said, adding, “As a precautionary measure, acting on medical advice, tomorrow’s diary programme will also be rescheduled.” The King was set to visit Birmingham on March 28 for a series of engagements.

The statement concluded with the palace sending “apologies to all those who may be inconvenienced or disappointed as a result.”

Palace aides have not given further details on his particular condition or treatment program, however, palace sources say his recovery continues to trend in a positive direction.

“The most minor bump in the road that’s very much heading in the right direction,” a royal source said.

King Charles announced his cancer diagnosis following a three-day hospital stay following a prostate procedure.

“The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure. He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible,” Buckingham Palace said in February 2024. “His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”

Earlier this month, King Charles shared an encouraging message while meeting with cancer patients at the Pharmacy and Pharmacology Department of Ulster University’s Coleraine.

“What’s that Winston Churchill saying? Keep buggering on,” quoting the resilient prime minister who led Britain through World War II.

He later asked them if they were able to “survive the side effects alright,” The Telegraph reported.

“You just have to push on, don’t you,” the monarch added.