King Charles’ cancer diagnosis creates challenges for the Palace, expert says

King Charles is pressing forward with his royal responsibilities while continuing cancer treatment, signaling optimism about his recovery. However, some experts warn that the road ahead may not be easy for the monarchy.

The British monarch revealed his cancer diagnosis in early 2024 and has been undergoing treatment ever since. While the exact type of cancer remains undisclosed, reports suggest his health is “moving in a positive direction.” Despite taking a temporary step back from public engagements, Charles has remained active in his duties.

His decision to publicly disclose his illness had a significant impact, with cancer awareness organizations reporting a surge in visits to screening and information websites. In a heartfelt message to the public, Charles expressed gratitude for the support he received and emphasized the importance of raising awareness about cancer treatment and care.

“I would like to express my most heartfelt thanks for the many messages of support and good wishes I have received in recent days,” Charles wrote. “As all those who have been affected by cancer will know, such kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement.”

He continued, “It is equally heartening to hear how sharing my own diagnosis has helped promote public understanding and shine a light on the work of all those organizations which support cancer patients and their families across the UK and wider world. My lifelong admiration for their tireless care and dedication is all the greater as a result of my own personal experience.”

Upcoming state visit to Italy

As a testament to his resilience, King Charles is set to travel to Italy in April for a state visit, accompanied by Queen Camilla. The royal couple will meet Pope Francis and participate in events strengthening UK-Italy relations.

This marks Charles’ 17th visit to Italy but his first overseas engagement of 2025. His former butler, Grant Harrold, praised the monarch’s determination but noted that his schedule is being carefully planned to accommodate his health needs.

“I think also he’s getting on a little bit, obviously he’s a little bit older. I mean when his mother became Queen and she was undertaking state visits, obviously she was a lot younger. I think because of obviously his age and his recent health and everything, they’ve probably just kind of been sensible about how they plan these kind of things. This is already his ninth visit since becoming king,” Harrold told GB News.

He added, “I just think they’re probably just planning it carefully and trying to make the most of his time while he’s overseas. With all state visits, it can be just for a couple of days or up to about a week. I’m not too sure exactly how long he’s there for. But again, these kinds of things, when they get planned, they make the most of it.”

Concerns over the king’s health

Despite assurances that Charles’ treatment is progressing well, some royal experts remain concerned. Journalist Daniela Elser recently analyzed recent photographs of the king, comparing them to images from just four years ago. She described the change in his appearance as “painfully hard to ignore,” raising questions about how the monarchy will function with an aging king battling cancer.

“The King might have been all smiles at church in late January, but Buckingham Palace is today facing down a previously unheard of, never-considered royal scenario — how to keep Crown Inc going in the time of an aging, cancer-battling monarch who is increasingly rattling around the Palace, stranded and with fewer than ever people to call on,” Elser wrote in News.com.au.

She continued, “As he ages and as he battles cancer, he has only very few working members of the royal family left he can rely on and delegate to in order to help him shoulder the load.”

With Prince Harry no longer a senior working royal and Prince Andrew stepping back from public duties, the monarchy is operating with a reduced core team. Much of the burden now falls on Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Princess Anne.

Personal loss and grief

Beyond his health struggles, Charles has also faced significant personal losses. In 2022, he mourned the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. More recently, he lost two close friends: Ian Farquhar, a former military officer and longtime companion, and Prince Karim, Aga Khan IV, a respected spiritual leader and philanthropist.

Aga Khan IV passed away on February 4, 2025, in Lisbon at the age of 88. He was a key figure in charitable initiatives and a personal friend of King Charles. The monarch was reportedly “deeply saddened” by his passing and has reached out to his family privately.

The Aga Khan Foundation issued a statement confirming his passing:

“His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), passed away peacefully in Lisbon on 4 February 2025, aged 88, surrounded by his family.”

Will King Charles abdicate?

With Charles navigating health challenges and grief, speculation has grown over whether he might eventually abdicate. While there has been no official indication that he plans to step down, historical precedent suggests that British monarchs rarely abdicate voluntarily.

For now, King Charles appears determined to fulfill his duties, showing resilience and dedication despite the obstacles. His upcoming visit to Italy may serve as a strong statement of his commitment to the throne.

What do you think? Should King Charles continue ruling, or should he consider stepping aside for Prince William? Share your thoughts in the comments.