Queen Camilla Had a Firm Warning for King Charles After His Health Scare — for His Own Good
In February 2024, King Charles was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer following a corrective procedure for an enlarged prostate. His health scare sparked nationwide concern, particularly as the monarch had only recently ascended the throne. Throughout his surgery at The London Clinic, Queen Camilla remained by his side, offering steady support. Shortly before the procedure, a source revealed that she had a stern warning for Charles: to scale back his public duties and focus on rest and recovery.
According to The Sun, a source claimed, "The Queen has told him he needs to slow down a bit." Sources close to the King added that he liked to be 'busy' and was 'raring to go.' In the days that followed, the Palace confirmed that Charles's procedure for an enlarged prostate was successful, with Camilla also adding that he was 'doing well.' The monarch had decided to share his diagnosis publicly to encourage more men to check for symptoms. His message clearly had a good effect, as the NHS England page on benign prostate enlargement had 26,170 visits in the 48 hours after his announcement.
In early February 2024, Buckingham Palace announced that the King had been diagnosed with cancer, though they decided against making public what type of cancer he had. The statement read, "During the King's recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer," adding that the monarch was advised by doctors to "postpone public-facing duties."
During his health scare, it was not just Camilla who advised Charles to slow down with his work. Royal author Robert Jobson wrote in his new book, The Windsor Legacy: A Royal Dynasty, that even Prince William had urged his father to adhere to his doctor's advice and cut down on his work engagements. The Prince of Wales even proposed to decrease his own engagements to ten a year, to focus on caring for Kate Middleton and their three children. Unfortunately for him, the King wasn't having any of it, reportedly replying, "Think again," to his request. Despite these differences, Jobson stressed that the cancer diagnosis brought the father and son closer.
In a rare public message broadcast in December 2025, Charles revealed that his doctors had agreed to reduce his cancer treatment in 2026 after he responded well to early diagnosis and medical care, calling it a 'blessing' and a sign of progress.