2024 ended up plaguing King Charles, as well as many other members of the Firm, past and present, including Sarah Ferguson and Kate Middleton.
For those unversed, while the ex-wife of Prince Andrew suffered a second coming of cancer, this time malignant melanoma. Kate Middleton got diagnosed as well, that too right after her planned abdominal surgery.
Shortly after King Charles followed suit was admitted as well for an enlarged prostate.
It is pertinent to mention though that while both wound up announcing cancer diagnoses, they kept details under wraps.
The public announcement for this dates back to January 2024, however the King personally addressed the news in Febuary with a statement that read, “I would like to express my most heartfelt thanks for the many messages of support and good wishes I have received in recent days.”
“As all those who have been affected by cancer will know, such kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement.”
What followed though, was a full schedule, that continued even when the King started treatment.
He even understood tours of Australia and Samoa, with a trusted royal doctor in toe.
In total the Royal Family’s website cites 15 pages worth of press releases, statements, visits and announcement by the King, all from January 2024 to July 2025.
However, not all has been sunshine and rainbows, the King has frequently spoken out about his health, providing updates whenever possible.
One such update came while the King discussed his most ‘darkest moment’ of the journey.
According to CNN, the monarch called himself ‘one of the statistics’ during a reception at Buckingham Palace. “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 also noted how this disease “has certainly given me an even deeper appreciation of the extraordinary work undertaken by the remarkable organizations and individuals gathered here this evening, many of whom I have known, visited and supported over the years.”
However, at the same time admitted, “it has reinforced what I have long observed during these visits - that the darkest moments of illness can be illuminated by the greatest compassion.”
The King's mortality is also sending alarm bells through the Palace, as many experts, former courters and even well wishers fear how long his reign will last.
One such commentator named Camilla Tominey even warned The Telegraph a few months ago,“The talk now is that he may die ‘with’ cancer, but not ‘of’ cancer following a rigorous treatment program.”
King Charles’ death plans have reportedly been sketched out already, while some are being carried on, by his son Prince William, behind the scenes to cater to the monarch’s sensibilities, a senior royal aide anonymously told Radar Online that some have also physically been prepped.
“These are rehearsals no one wants to do, but everyone has to be ready. Every detail is planned – from who calls whom to how flags are lowered,” they said.
Known as Operation London Bridge, plans for King Charles’ death start with an announcement under the same codename.
Immediately following suit would be phone calls to close family, friends, then government officials.
After that the press would follow suit, Buckingham Palace’s outer wall will feature a notice saying the same.