King Charles III and his wife Queen Camilla held an important event at Palace on Wednesday to highlight community-based cancer care projects to support people suffering from the chronic disease.
The monarch, who’s cancer treatment is still going on even a year after his diagnosis in February 2024, encouraged people to stand firm, stating: “The darkest moments of illness can be illuminated by the greatest compassion.”
The royal family shared the video from the event on its official Instagram account with a meaningful statement: “The King and Queen hosted a reception in recognition of the incredible work that community-based organisations do to support those living with cancer, and to raise awareness of preventative actions people can take to avoid cancer.”
The statement continued: “Accompanied by The Duchess of Gloucester, Their Majesties spent time with representatives from their patronages, including @MacmillanCancer and @MaggiesCentres, and learnt more about the practical work delivered by other initiatives, such as:
— @MoveDanceFeel, which unites women affected by cancer through dance;
— Rainbow Boxes (@wicci.office), which offers practical items as people start cancer treatment;
— …and @WigsForHeroes, which supports people facing cancer related hair loss.
The Palace also shared the list of the guests – who were also champions of cancer charities – attended the event, including broadcaster Adele Roberts, former footballer Ashley Cain, and actor Richard E Grant, thanking them for all that they do.
During the event, the King and the Queen were also treated to a performance by the amazing Check + Change Choir, who were brought together by the Lorraine campaign, which spreads awareness of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer.
The 76-year-old monarch, who continues to receive treatment more than a year later, was joined by Queen Camilla and the Duchess of Gloucester at the event celebrating charitable work undertaken by local and national organisations.
Shortly before the reception, a personal message from the King was shared on social media, highlighting his experience living with cancer.
The message read: “Each diagnosis, each new case, will be a daunting and at times frightening experience for those individuals and their loved ones.”
The King added: “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.”
