King Charles shared a deeply personal message about his ongoing cancer journey during a reception at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday, April 30, offering words of encouragement to others facing similar health challenges. The reception, which brought together hundreds of people working with and supported by community-based cancer organizations, provided a platform for the king to reflect on his experiences since being diagnosed in January 2024.
In his message, which was printed in a booklet and distributed to attendees, King Charles acknowledged the emotional toll of receiving a cancer diagnosis. “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,” he remarked.
The king noted that approximately 390,000 people receive cancer diagnoses across the UK annually, equating to more than 1,000 new cases daily. He recognized how receiving such news can be both daunting and frightening for patients and their loved ones, but emphasized that his own journey had illuminated extraordinary acts of compassion and support.
King Charles expressed gratitude to researchers, healthcare professionals, volunteers, and fundraisers who support cancer patients and their families. He highlighted the profound impact of human connection throughout the cancer journey, whether through explanations from specialists, compassion from hospice volunteers, or shared experiences in support groups.
The monarch said he and Queen Camilla have repeatedly been struck by the importance of these connections. He described how these moments of kinship create what he called a “community of care” that sustains patients through their most difficult times. This community, he suggested, offers vital emotional and practical support when patients need it most.
In perhaps the most touching moment of his message, Charles paid tribute to the late Dame Deborah James, a BBC podcast host and columnist who died of bowel cancer in June 2022 at age 40. The king described Dame Deborah as “an inspiration to us all, in sickness and in health” and quoted her parting words to those who may be facing a cancer diagnosis now or in the future.
“Find a life worth enjoying; take risks; love deeply; have no regrets; and always, always have rebellious hope,” he quoted, echoing Dame Deborah’s philosophy that had resonated with so many.
Dame Deborah’s parents, Heather and Alistair James, were among the guests at the palace reception. Her mother expressed mixed emotions about the event, feeling honored to meet the king and queen while wishing her daughter could have been present. She took pride in her daughter’s legacy and the impact of the Bowelbabe fund, which has raised more than $21 million for cancer research since its launch.
The reception showcased the diverse work of cancer support organizations. Various groups presented their initiatives, such as Move Dance Feel, which unites women affected by cancer through dance, Rainbow Boxes, which provides practical items for people starting cancer treatment, and Wigs for Heroes, supporting those undergoing treatment.
Notable attendees included radio presenter Adele Roberts, former footballer Ashley Cain, actor Richard E. Grant, and Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, who has also been treated for cancer. The event highlighted the royal family’s commitment to supporting cancer awareness and treatment initiatives.
King Charles was diagnosed with an unspecified form of cancer in January 2024, following a procedure for an enlarged prostate. While Buckingham Palace has not publicly disclosed his prognosis, royal sources indicate his treatment continues in a “very positive direction,” as evidenced by his full schedule of national and international engagements.
In March 2025, the king required a brief hospital stay after experiencing “temporary side effects” following a routine cancer treatment. Despite these challenges, he has maintained an active role in royal duties, including a state visit to Italy in April.
Queen Camilla recently commented on how the king’s work sustains him during his treatment. During their trip to Italy in early April, she noted that he loves his work and it keeps him going. She observed that as he recovers, he wants to do more and more, adding that helping others is what drives him. When asked about the possibility of reducing his workload, the queen quipped, “Dream on.”
The king’s message comes after a challenging period for the royal family’s health. His daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, was also diagnosed with cancer in February 2024. She underwent chemotherapy treatment last summer and announced in September that she was cancer-free. She is currently in remission.
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams described the king’s message as “extraordinarily moving” and predicted it would be “heard around the world.” He noted that by using the word “frightening” to describe his experience, Charles had communicated the difficulties and fears associated with a cancer diagnosis in a deeply personal way.
Through his candid reflection on his cancer journey, King Charles has not only provided insight into his personal experience but also offered encouragement to others facing similar challenges. His message emphasizes the importance of community, compassion, and hope in the face of serious illness.
