King Charles breaks silence with first public statement since cancer diagnosis

07 February 2024 , 20:08

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Charles was diagnosed with cancer this week (Image: AFP via Getty Images)

King Charles has spoken out for the first time since his shock cancer diagnosis.

Speaking out to mark Grenada’s 50th anniversary of Independence, the King said he sent his "congratulations and warmest good wishes" to the country, despite his current worrying health issues. The announcement Monday that King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer has come as a shock to many in Britain, largely because the 75-year-old monarch has generally enjoyed good health through the years.

Palace officials did not specify what kind of cancer the king has, or how serious his condition is. They only said that it was discovered during the King’s recent hospital treatment for an enlarged prostate, but isn’t prostate cancer. Charles — who came to the throne after his mother Queen Elizabeth II died in September 2022 — has started a schedule of regular treatments and will postpone public-facing duties, officials said.

The full statement to Grenada read: "Over these past five decades, I have watched with the deepest admiration as you have built your nation and forged Grenada's distinct place in the world, and as an essential member of our Commonwealth family. Together, you have established Grenada as an exemplar of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Together, you have risen to the most critical challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss by offering the world an example of leadership, resilience and innovation. Together, you have given life to the words of your national anthem: 'Aspire, build, advance!'

King Charles and Queen Camilla visit St George's Carenage in Grenada in 2019 (Tim Rooke/REX)

"My wife and I hold such special memories of our visit to your beautiful 'Spice Island' five years ago, and of the warm and touching welcome you extended to us. Then, as whenever I have met Grenadians anywhere in the world, I was struck by your resilience, the strength of your community and by your shared determination to make a positive difference.

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"In this Grenadian spirit you can take the greatest pride. Whether through the remarkable contributions of Grenada's artists, musicians and authors, or the triumphs of your athletes, al1 of whom have enjoyed such extraordinary success, '473 to the World' is an inspiration to us all.

"I can only say how sorry I am that I cannot be with you in person to mark this momentous milestone, and to enjoy a little Oil Down with you all! My thoughts are with everyone across Grenada, Carriacou and Petit Martinique, and all those in the Grenadian diaspora - "one people, one family" - as you celebrate everything you have achieved and all that your future holds. My family join me in sending our heartfelt congratulations to you all."

Rachel Hagan