King Charles praises ‘selfless’ doctors and nurses for cancer treatment

King Charles III In his Christmas speech, he praised the commitment of “selfless” doctors and nurses to his and his family’s health. The 76-year-old monarch has been being treated for an unspecified cancer for months – as has his daughter-in-law Princess Kate, who has now completed her chemotherapy.

Charles said he wanted to personally thank the medical teams. They “supported me and other members of my family this year through the uncertainties and fears of the disease and gave us the strength, care and comfort we needed.”

Charles made his illness public a few months ago, also to give hope and encouragement to other cancer patients. His doctors are reportedly pleased with his progress. However, the treatment will continue in 2025. The head of state is still planning trips abroad.

For his traditional address, Charles chose a symbolic location: the 19th century Fitzrovia Chapel in central London served as a hospital chapel for a long time. According to reports, the king wanted a place with a connection to healthcare. It is the first time in more than a decade that the Christmas address was not recorded at a royal property. The Christmas tree that can be seen next to Charles has since been donated to a hospice.

“We all experience some form of suffering at some point in our lives, be it mental or physical,” the monarch said. “The extent to which we help one another – and receive support from one another, whether we are believers or not – is a measure of our civilization as nations.” Pictures were broadcast showing the king meeting other cancer patients.

In his speech, Charles also discussed the serious right-wing extremist riots in several British cities in the summer, which were also triggered by false news about the identity of a knife stabber. The king said he was proud of the community spirit and cooperation of communities in rebuilding destroyed buildings.

Charles praised the Commonwealth for its “diversity of cultures, ethnicities and beliefs.” The member states – usually former British colonies – listened to each other. This makes it possible to respect differences and defeat prejudices, said the king.