Buckingham Palace has confirmed recent updates on King Charles III's health status. The monarch, who has been undergoing cancer treatment since early 2024, sent a personal letter to Joe Biden after the diagnosis of the former U.S. president became known.
Biden announced last Sunday, May 18, that he has aggressive prostate cancer with bone metastasis. While many leaders used social media to send him messages, Charles III opted for a private letter, according to British media. The content has not been revealed, but its promptness drew attention.
The relationship between the two is close. They met in July 2023 at Windsor Castle during Biden's visit to the United Kingdom. The royal family described their bond as "extremely cordial." Biden also attended Queen Elizabeth II's funerals in 2022 and had met Charles when he was still a prince in 2021.
In contrast, the reaction of the current U.S. president Donald Trump was different. On the same day of Biden's announcement, Trump wished him a "speedy and successful recovery" on his social network Truth Social. But days later, in a press conference, he made mistakes when talking about the cancer stage. He said, "It takes a long time to reach stage 9," confusing the actual stage, which is 4, with the Gleason score, which is indeed 9. He added that "someone will have to talk to his doctor."
The photo of Charles III
Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, King Charles's public appearance at recent events has caused interest. On Saturday, he attended the Royal Windsor Horse Show and on Monday the Chelsea Flower Show. At both events, he showed good energy and conversed with close people, such as his brother, Prince Edward, and former footballer David Beckham.
However, there was a detail that caught attention: Charles used a cane during both events. This reminded many of Queen Elizabeth II, who also used a cane in her later years due to mobility issues.
The Palace is trying to calm speculations. Sources consulted by Hello! magazine stated that the cane is a nod to the king's fondness for gardening and the tradition of the countryside event. The cane has an elaborate curl-shaped handle, made from a real tree branch, which reinforces this theory.
Experts in mobility aids suggest that using a cane can help relieve pressure on sore joints and improve balance. Due to its ornamental design, the king might also use it for comfort given a demanding schedule.
However, they warn that a poorly used cane can increase the risk of falls and injuries. It is also important that the cane has the appropriate height to avoid harm.
It should be noted that Charles III is not new to using canes. Photographs from 1998, 2004, and 2019 show that he already used them at public events when he was Prince of Wales.
Buckingham Palace keeps discretion about the monarch's health, who continues with his treatment. The letter to Joe Biden reflects his support at a delicate moment for both leaders.