In January, Charles sought treatment for an enlarged prostate following the death of his mother in 2022. Buckingham Palace announced that cancer had been detected the following month. Recently, the palace made an update on Charles’ health, stating that his treatment is ongoing but doctors are optimistic about his recovery.
The announcement was strategically timed for the evening news, bringing relief to the British public and Westminster bubble used to alarming news from Buckingham Palace. Although Charles’ role is largely ceremonial, he plays a significant part in the functioning of the British state. He signs acts of parliament into law and hosts gatherings of the Privy Council.
Charles also meets with the prime minister regularly to provide a stable presence amidst political turmoil in Westminster. The well-being of the royal family has been a cause for concern lately, with Charles’ health scare followed by his daughter-in-law Kate Middleton’s hospitalization for abdominal surgery earlier this year.