King Charles opened up about the “shock” of his cancer diagnosis during his return to public duties today.
The King bravely met patients in a chemotherapy ward in a hospital, where he appeared relaxed and in good spirits.
During a visit to University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre in London, he sat down to chat with those receiving chemotherapy and told them he was “well”, “alright” and “not too bad”.
King Charles, who also said it was a “bit of a shock” to receive a cancer diagnosis, was joined by Queen Camilla during the trip.
Queen Camilla and King Charles stepping out in London today
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They went on several impromptu walkabouts, meeting staff who stopped to catch a glimpse of the couple.
The King looked overjoyed to be back performing duties for the first time since his cancer diagnosis, smiling and holding the hands of patients on the chemotherapy ward.
The development indicated the positive progress Charles has made after almost three months of cancer care as an outpatient.
When asked about his health, the King told one patient: “I’m alright thank you very much, not too bad.”
King Charles also became patron of Cancer Research UK today
PA
Speaking about being diagnosed, he added: “It’s always a bit of a shock, isn’t it, when they tell you?”
The King sympathised with another patient as she was treated, telling Lesley Woodbridge, 63: “I’ve got to have my treatment this afternoon as well.”
Asha Millen, 60, who is receiving chemotherapy for bone marrow cancer, also chatted to the King as he met patients in the chemotherapy day unit.
She asked Charles about his own health, saying: “I said ‘How are you?’ and he said ‘I’m well’.”
King Charles spoke about the shock of his cancer diagnosis today
PA
King Charles gleamed as he returned to public-facing duties today
PA
King Charles was keen for his first engagement since doctors allowed him to resume public events to raise awareness of the importance of early diagnoses.
The 75-year-old also hoped the trip could highlight some of the innovative research, supported by Cancer Research UK, which takes place at the hospital.
Also today, Prince William visited an Earthshot Prize finalist firm in Seaham, County Durham while his wife Kate battles a form of cancer.