During one of his speeches, King Charles III spoke loudly and clearly about one of the topics that are close to him. So much so that the 76-year-old monarch had no qualms about stating that "the darkest moments of illness can be illuminated".
There is no doubt that cancer is an "overwhelming and sometimes frightening" experience both for those who suffer from it and for their loved ones. The British sovereign stated this as well during a reception with organizations dedicated to supporting people affected by this disease.
A statement, released last April 30, in which Charles III made it clear that he speaks "as someone who is part of the statistics". However, he did not want to make any reference to the progress of his health condition:
"Each diagnosis, each new case, will be an overwhelming and sometimes frightening experience for those individuals and their loved ones. But as someone who is part of those statistics, I can attest that it can also be an experience that shows the best of humanity".
Hours after that reception at Buckingham, Charles III surprised again with the words he posted on the institution's social media. At that moment, he revealed the following message: "The darkest moments of illness can be illuminated by the greatest compassion".
King Charles III reflects on cancer during a reception at Buckingham Palace
That day, King Charles III and his wife welcomed various organizations dedicated to providing support to cancer patients, as well as their families, at Buckingham Palace. This meeting served to recognize the work of charitable organizations that also promote campaigns to raise funds for research.
During his speech, the 76-year-old British monarch reflected on the value of human contact that these organizations offer to all patients in their most difficult moments:
"It has given me an even deeper appreciation of the extraordinary work carried out by remarkable organizations and individuals gathered here this evening. Many of whom I have met, visited, and supported over the years".
At this moment, Charles III stated that, during these visits, he has learned a great lesson. "The darkest moments of illness can be illuminated by the greatest compassion," he added.
After the reception, King Charles III and Queen Camilla's Instagram account published a letter signed by the sovereign. This message was addressed "to all those who support cancer patients and their loved ones".
"What surprises us repeatedly is the deep impact of human connection. Whether in the careful explanation of a specialist nurse, in the hand of a hospital volunteer, or in the shared experience in a support group".
As Charles III points out, "these moments of kinship create what I might call a 'community of care', one that supports patients in the hardest moments".
He also wanted to thank "all the research that pursues pioneering advances, the healthcare professionals who provide specialized treatment, and the volunteers". Without forgetting "the fundraising that makes all this vital work possible".
Charles III concluded his letter by stating that all of them "have the deepest admiration and gratitude of my whole family". "Your commitment to early diagnosis, increasingly successful therapies, and truly holistic care represent the best our country can offer. I am very grateful for all of you," he concluded.