Queen Camilla spoke about the personal strain of keeping King Charles III’s cancer diagnosis private during a recent visit to a Maggie’s cancer support centre in London. The comments were recorded for a short documentary released Wednesday to mark the charity’s 30‑year anniversary.
Visit to the new Maggie’s centre
On Jan. 31, 2024, Camilla toured the newly opened Maggie’s centre at the Royal Free Hospital. At the time, the King’s diagnosis had not yet been announced publicly; the official statement came on Feb. 5.
“I remember coming to see Maggie’s just after the King being diagnosed,” the Queen said in the film. “Nobody could say anything at the time. That was quite difficult. I almost said something but, you know, I felt that it wasn’t the time to say. I was just longing to let it out but obviously I couldn’t.”
King Charles’ health update
Charles, 77, disclosed that he was diagnosed with cancer following a prostate procedure. In December 2025 he gave a rare update, saying treatment was progressing well. He resumed public engagements in April 2024 and continues to receive treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer.
Camilla, who serves as president of Maggie’s, praised the King’s perseverance, noting, “Nothing stopped him. He just said, ‘This is my way. I’m going to cope with it.’”
Maggie’s role and statements
Maggie’s operates 27 cancer‑support centres across the United Kingdom, assisting hundreds of thousands of patients and families each year. Laura Lee, the charity’s chief executive, was filmed speaking with Camilla for the documentary. Lee said the Queen’s candidness highlighted the importance of family and friends in providing support during serious illness.
“The King’s openness about his diagnosis has undoubtedly helped others to be more open themselves,” Lee added, emphasizing the value of community support for those facing cancer.
Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.