King Charles reveals how he felt when told about cancer diagnosis and holds hands with patients – inside his first public outing
King Charles has officially returned to public duties for the first time since his cancer diagnosis was revealed at the start of the year.
On Tuesday, both the monarch and Queen Camilla – who will mark one year since their coronation on 6 May – appeared to be in great spirits as they visited University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre where they spoke to medical specialists and patients.
In a touching moment, Charles warmly held hands with cancer patients as he took the time to hear their stories. During one conversation, His Majesty confessed it was a “bit of a shock” when he was given his own cancer diagnosis. Asked how he is doing by one patient undergoing chemotherapy, the King replied: “Not too bad. It’s always a bit of a shock, isn’t it, when they tell you?”
The King was asked how he was feeling, saying: “I’m alright thank you very much, not too bad.” He is understood to be having further treatment later on.
This outing marks the first in a number of many external engagements His Majesty will undertake in the weeks ahead after confirming the positive effect of his cancer treatment.
The royal couple are raising awareness of the importance of early diagnosis and are highlighting innovative research, supported by Cancer Research UK.
