King Charles gave a rare update on his cancer journey during an April 29 reception at Buckingham Palace for cancer support groups.

In a written message, the 76-year-old thanked healthcare workers for their kindness and care, both to him and Queen Camilla. Charles, who announced his diagnosis in February 2024, also praised the support organizations for the comfort they provide to others facing cancer.

“Each diagnosis, each new case, will be a daunting and at times frightening experience for those individuals and their loved ones,” Charles, his wife Queen Camilla wrote in the booklet. “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.”

King Charles  underscored the serious reality that 1,000 people in the UK receive a cancer diagnosis each day. His own diagnosis came in February following a three-night stay at The London Clinic, where he underwent treatment for an enlarged prostate. Further tests revealed a form of cancer.

According to the Mirror, since then, the King has been receiving weekly treatment at a London hospital. Despite his health battle, he resumed public duties in April and has taken on a demanding schedule.

“It has certainly given me an even deeper appreciation of the extraordinary work undertaken by the remarkable organisations and individuals gathered here this evening, many of whom I have known, visited and supported over the years,” Charles added. “And it has reinforced what I have long observed during these visits—that the darkest moments of illness can be illuminated by the greatest compassion.”

“What strikes us repeatedly is the profound impact of human connection—whether in the careful explanation from a specialist nurse, the hand held by a hospice volunteer, or the shared experience in a support group,” he said. “These moments of kinship create what I might call a ‘community of care,’ one that sustains patients through the most difficult of times.”

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“This collective endeavour reminds us of what we can achieve. When we are united with a common purpose.”

King Charles III shared that he and Queen Camilla continue to support several cancer charities and have seen firsthand the important help these groups offer to families. His cancer diagnosis came just days before his daughter-in-law, the Princess of Wales, was also diagnosed. According to royal sources, the two have found comfort in supporting each other through their health challenges.

While Charles is doing better, his cancer is still being managed. Both he and the Princess have since used their public roles to raise awareness for cancer patients, hospitals, and medical staff. In his message, the King praised healthcare workers for giving people hope and support during difficult times.