Select a region
Jersey's Bailiff, political figures and charities have sent their best wishes to King Charles III after it was revealed last night that he had been diagnosed with cancer.
Buckingham Palace confirmed last night that the King had been diagnosed with a form of cancer discovered during recent treatment for what was described as a "benign prostate enlargement".
The Palace said that His Majesty had now begun a "schedule of regular treatments" and would be postponing public-facing duties in the meantime.
A statement from Buckingham Palace: https://t.co/zmYuaWBKw6
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) February 5, 2024
???? Samir Hussein pic.twitter.com/xypBLHHQJb
The statement added that the King was "wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible".
It said that he had chosen to share his diagnosis to "prevent speculation", but also to "assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer".
Jersey's Bailiff, Sir Timothy Le Cocq, who was in attendance at the King's Coronation ceremony, shared a message of support.
This morning, he confirmed that a letter had been sent to His Majesty on behalf of the people of Jersey.
Following the announcement issued this evening by the Palace we send our thoughts to the Royal Household and to those families who may also be receiving similar news. pic.twitter.com/LoOe5KEqkM
— Bailiff of Jersey (@bailiffofjersey) February 5, 2024
That letter read: "Your people in Jersey have learned with concern the news regarding your Majesty's health.
"That You have chosen to make public your illness can only give hope and support to those who are facing similar challenges.
"May we assure you, Sir, that you are in the thoughts and in the prayers of the people of Jersey and we wish you well for a speedy and complete recovery."
CLICK TO READ: The Bailiff's letter to the King.
Newly appointed Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham was among the political figures to share a message of support with the King.
He wished His Majesty a "full and quick recovery" following his diagnosis.
Wishing His Majesty a full and quick recovery following his cancer diagnosis.
— Chief Minister of Jersey (@ChiefMinJSY) February 5, 2024
Former Chief Minister Kristina Moore, who was treated for and recovered from breast cancer in 2013 and 2014, commented: "A cancer diagnosis is always very worrying.
"We all join together to wish His Majesty well through his treatment journey and may he have a swift recovery.
"We will pray for him."
A cancer diagnosis is always very worrying. We all join together to wish His Majesty well through his treatment journey & may he have a swift recovery. We will pray for him.
— Kristina Moore (@Moore4Jersey) February 5, 2024
External Relations Minister Ian Gorst simply said: "God Save The King."
That was a message also shared by Deputy Malcolm Ferey, who said that the phrase had "never... seemed more appropriate".
God Save The King. pic.twitter.com/NP4MROQVDN
— Deputy Ian Gorst (@Ian_Gorst) February 5, 2024
Never has the following phrase seemed more appropriate,
— Malcolm Ferey - Deputy of St Saviour (@MalcolmFerey) February 5, 2024
God save the King! pic.twitter.com/pczqZet7DM
Housing Minister and Reform Jersey Leader Deputy Sam Mézec said the news was "very worrying".
"Wishing His Majesty a full and speedy recovery," he said.
Very concerning news. Wishing His Majesty a full and speedy recovery. https://t.co/7tjVcOcd04
— Deputy Sam Mézec (@SamMezecJsy) February 5, 2024
Macmillan Jersey, which supports people and families living with cancer on the island, said their team's thoughts were with the King and his family.
They urged anyone needing help to reach out for support.
"Cancer doesn't discriminate," the charity said.
"Should you have questions or concerns about cancer please feel free to call us."
Buckingham Palace first confirmed that the King would be attending hospital for an enlarged prostate on 17 January.
He received treatment on 26 January, and left hospital after three nights. His cancer diagnosis was confirmed at 18:00 on Monday 5 February.
The Palace has not confirmed which type of cancer the King has, other than confirm that it is not prostate cancer.
Prince William is now expected to cover some engagements on behalf of the King while his treatment continues. However, Buckingham Palace said that he would still "undertake State business and official paperwork as usual".
Prince Harry is due to fly to the UK from the US – where he has been living with his wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, since 2020 – to visit his father.
Islanders can now find details of all local cancer support services in one place thanks to a new directory launched to mark World Cancer Day on Sunday.
The comprehensive, easy access guide has information about all the cancer care support services available to both patients and their families in Jersey.
Browse the guide HERE.
Pictured top: King Charles III and the announcement about his health from Buckingham Palace. (Samir Hussein/Buckingham Palace)
Comments
Comments on this story express the views of the commentator only, not Bailiwick Publishing. We are unable to guarantee the accuracy of any of those comments.