King Charles III has broken his silence after it was revealed last week that he had been diagnosed with cancer after a recent surgery.
The monarch, 75, had been admitted to hospital for surgery for an enlarged prostate when the cancer was found, with doctors confirming that it was not prostate cancer.
Buckingham Palace had announced the news on February 5, saying in a statement: "During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer.
"His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties. Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual."
The King has now shared a heartfelt statement of his own, addressing his diagnosis and the reaction he has received since going public.
A photo of King Charles shaking hands with a medical worker was shared to the Royal Family's official Instagram account, as well as his statement.
He wrote: "I would like to express my most heartfelt thanks for the many messages of support and good wishes I have received in recent days.
"As all those who have been affected by cancer will know, such kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement."
The monarch added: "It is equally heartening to hear how sharing my own diagnosis has helped promote public understanding and shine a light on the work of all those organizations which support cancer patients and their families across the UK and wider world.
"My lifelong admiration for their tireless care and dedication is all the greater as a result of my own personal experience."
The King will be postponing public-facing duties while undergoing treatment, but will continue to undertake state business behind the scenes as usual.
After the diagnosis was announced, his youngest son Prince Harry flew in from the United States where he lives with wife Meghan Markle,, and their two children, Archie and Lilibet.
He and his father are said to have met for just 45 minutes during his trip, before the Prince flew back to the US just 24 hours later.
In the original statement announcing his diagnosis, the Palace shared that his majesty is "grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure," adding: "He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.
"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."
Our thoughts remain with King Charles and we wish him a speedy recovery.
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