Prince Harry won’t see his father, King Charles IIIduring his trip to the UK to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games.
A spokesperson for the Duke tells ET: “In response to the many inquiries and ongoing speculation as to whether or not the Duke will be meeting his father during his stay in the UK this week, unfortunately this will not be possible due to His Majesty’s busy schedule.” .” . The Duke, of course, understands his father’s obligations and various other priorities and hopes to see him again soon.
The 39-year-old king briefly returned to the UK for a 24-hour journey He returned home in February after receiving news of his father’s cancer diagnosis.
The palace first announced in February that Charles had been diagnosed with cancer King had undergone surgery related to an enlarged prostate.
“During the King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a different problem was discovered. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer,” the palace said in a statement at the time. “His Majesty began a regular treatment schedule today. During this time, he was advised by doctors to postpone public duties. During this period, His Majesty will continue to conduct state business and official formalities as usual.”
In an interview with Good morning America shortly after the news revealed, the Duke of Sussex reflected on the possible impact of his father’s illness on the family dynamic.
“I love my family,” the father of two said during an interview with Will Reeve. “The fact that I was able to get on a plane and visit him and spend time with him at any time, I’m grateful for that.”
When asked about the possibility that King Charles’ cancer would bring the family closer together, Harry answered in the affirmative, saying: “Absolutely. Yes, I am sure.” He emphasized the strength of the family in difficult times and pointed out that illnesses often serve to unite relatives.
A month after Charles’ message, his daughter-in-law contacted Kate Middletonreleased a video message sharing this She was also diagnosed with cancer and sought treatment. The mother of three didn’t do that has had any public events since December.
Her husband, Prince Williamhas returned to public engagements after a short absence.
Harry and his wife, Meghan MarklePrivate turned to his brother and sister-in-law, as well as a joint statement in support of Kate. In a statement to ET, the couple said, “We wish Kate and the family health and healing and hope they can do so privately and in peace.”
Charlies returned to official royal duties last month amid his ongoing health battle. On April 26, Buckingham Palace announced that the 75-year-old British monarch plans to “return to public duties following a period of treatment and recovery following his recent cancer diagnosis.”
The palace added that Charles would host “a number” of public events in the next few weeks, including inviting the Emperor and Empress of Japan for a state visit in June.
“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 during the joys and challenges of the past year,” the palace said in a statement.
Harry is currently in the UK to take part in the 10th anniversary celebrations of the Invictus Games, which hosted the first competition for wounded, injured and sick soldiers and veterans in London 10 years ago.
After his visit to London, Harry is also expected to visit Nigeria with Meghan after being invited by the Nigerian Chief of Defense Staff, who met Prince Harry during the Invictus Games in Germany last year.
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