King Charles has arrived back in Buckingham Palace after a short stay at the royal estate in Sandringham, UK.
According to reports, the King and Queen Camilla were seen landing in the palace grounds via helicopter earlier today. Charles began treatment for cancer last week, before heading to Sandringham for a few days rest and recuperation.
Hello! Magazine say that the monarch has now returned to London to continue his treatment, and had decided upon a visit to Sandringham as it affords him more privacy that he usually gets.
A source told the outlet: “When the King visits Sandringham, it’s a place where he can get some solace. One of the tour guides mentioned how he enjoys having his breakfast tea and afternoon tea in front of the backdrop of his beautiful gardens. Even when the house is open and he is staying there, the King tends to reside upstairs.”
As is usually the case, the royals have remained tight-lipped as to Charles health. Though word of his cancer diagnosis was forthcoming after his planned procedure to treat an enlarged prostate, the public have not been told what sort of cancer the King has, nor what stage he is at.
Buckingham Palace’s initial statement read: “During the King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer.
“His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties. Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual.”
What we do know is that Prince Harry returned to the UK last Tuesday to meet face-to-face in a private meeting with his father for the first time since Queen Elizabeth died, while the King is said to have informed his closest loved ones about his diagnosis personally.
Tim Rooke – Pool/Getty Images
Last week, the Daily Mail cited sources as having described the King as “on good form” after the start of his treatment.
Nevertheless, it’s speculated that Charles may take a prolonged absence from his official duties and royal appearances as his treatment gets underway.
Robert Hardman, author of Charles III: New King. New Court. The Inside Story, told BBC Radio 4’s Today program: “I would imagine we probably won’t see him at Westminster Abbey now.
“I’m sure there will be a statement, a message – he’ll want to engage with that. It’s moments like that when an absence is noted, but the day-to-day running of the monarchy will not really change.”
Here’s to sending love and support in King Charles’ direction.
