At the beginning of February, Charles announced his cancer diagnosis. He's giving a speech for the first time since his diagnosis. “In recent weeks, I have been deeply touched by your kind and thoughtful wishes for my health,” Charles said in his speech. “I recently celebrated my 75th birthday, and it warms my heart to think of how the Commonwealth has been a constant in my life, and a precious source of strength, inspiration and pride.”
The King continued: “My faith in our joint efforts and in the potential of our people remains as steadfast and strong as ever. I have no doubt that we will continue to support each other across the Commonwealth as we continue this important journey together.”
Not much is known about the diagnosis of cancer. It is not known what form this cancer was and at what stage it was discovered, but Charles is determined to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Conference in Samoa in October.
The Commonwealth is a partnership between the United Kingdom and 52 other countries, including Canada, Australia and New Zealand, of which the British monarch is the nominal head. The 53 countries were colonies of the United Kingdom in the past.