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King Charles III has returned to public-facing royal duties for the first time since Buckingham Palace announced his cancer diagnosis in February.
On Tuesday, the 75-year-old visited the University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centrewhere he metwith medical specialists and patients.The British monarchwas joinedby his wife, QueenCamilla.
KING CHARLES’ CANCER BATTLE HAS HIM ‘DETERMINED TO MAKE HIS MARK ON HISTORY’: EXPERT
King Charles III visited the University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre in London on April 30, 2024. ( HENRY NICHOLLS/AFP via Getty Images)
Upon arrival, the duo waved and greeted bystanders before entering the medical facility. At one point, the king greeted a young admirer who welcomed him with a small bouquet of flowers.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla greet a well-wisher who presents them with gifts during their visit to the University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre. (Samir Hussein/WireImage)
It’sunderstoodthat the cancer center has notbeen directly involvedwith theking’smedical care, People magazine reported.
“It is very reassuring to see the King return to his official duties -he’sbeen demanding that his doctors give him the go-ahead for weeks now,”Christopher Andersen, author of“The King,”told Fox News Digital.
King Charles was accompanied by Queen Camilla. (Chris Jackson/Getty Images)
“Not to throw cold water on the moment, butit’sclear the palace wants a positive and hopeful message to offset all the alarming speculation about HisMajesty’sprognosis,”Andersen added.
“King Charleswas heldback from going out and about by both his doctors and courtiers,”British royals expert Hilary Fordwich told Fox News Digital.”It’sappropriate to visit a cancer center as his first returning official duty, drawing a spotlight on the disease.”
The King met with various patients during his visit. (Suzanne Plunkett – WPA Pool/Getty Images)
In a statement previously obtained by Fox News Digital, the palace announced that the visit”will be the first in a number of external engagements His Majesty will undertake in the weeks ahead.”
Another upcoming event is scheduled for June when Charles and Camilla will host the Emperor and Empress of Japan for a state visit.
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“As the first anniversary of The Coronation approaches, Their Majesties remain deeply grateful for the many kindnesses and good wishes they have received from around the world throughout the joys and challenges of the past year,”the statement concluded.
The news came after the monarch took a three-month break following his cancer diagnosis.
A spokesperson for the palace explained to Fox News Digital that while Charles is well enough to resume his duties,he’sstill receiving treatment for his cancer.
Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla stand in Buckingham Palace Gardens on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, the day after their 19th wedding anniversary. This photo was released on Friday, April 26, 2024, to mark the first anniversary of their Coronation. (Millie Pilkington/Buckingham Palace via AP)
“HisMajesty’streatment programme will continue, but doctors are sufficiently pleased with the progress made so far that The Kingis now able toresume a number of public-facing duties. Forthcoming engagements will be adapted where necessary to minimiseanyrisks to HisMajesty’scontinued recovery,”the palace said.
“His Majesty is greatly encouraged to be resuming some public-facing duties and very grateful to his medical team for their continued care and expertise,”said a spokesperson.
The palace added thatit’s”too early to say”how long theking’streatment may continue,”but HisMajesty’smedical team are very encouraged by the progress made so far and remain positive about TheKing’scontinued recovery.”
Prime Minister Sunak told King Charles III, “The country’s behind you” following the monarch’s cancer diagnosis. (Jonathan Brady/Getty Images)
Charles was diagnosed with a form of cancer and is undergoing treatment, Buckingham Palace announced in February. A”separate issue of concern”was identified duringCharles'”benign prostate enlargement” procedure at the London Clinic.
“Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer,”the palace said in a statement at the time.
King Charles III leaves the London Clinic with Queen Camilla after receiving treatment for an enlarged prostate. (Mark Cuthbert/Getty Images)
Less than 18 months into his reign, the monarch suspended public engagements. He continued with state business anddidn’thand overhis constitutional role as head of state.
The palace addedthat the king”has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”
Charles became king in September 2022 when his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died atthe age of96 after 70 years on the throne.
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Kate Middleton and King Charles shared a private lunch before she announced her cancer diagnosis in March. (Getty Images)
In a video shared in March, Kate Middleton revealed that she, too, is battling a form ofcancer,and has been undergoing preventative chemotherapy treatment.
The Princess of Wales, 42,is still taking a break from royal duties as she recovers. Her husband, Prince William,who isheir to the throne,took time off to look after their three children. The eldest son of the king has since resumed royal duties.
Fox News Digital’s Emily Trainham and the Associated Press contributed to this report.
Stephanie Nolasco covers entertainment at Foxnews.com.
