In a display of vulnerability that’s rare for the Royal Family, the Prince of Wales opened up to media about the challenges that have come with both his wife and father being diagnosed with cancer.
While fronting media at the end of his visit to South Africa, the Prince was asked how his year has been.
“Honestly? It’s been dreadful,” he responded. “It’s probably been the hardest year in my life. So, trying to get through everything else and keep everything on track has been really difficult.”
King Charles is currently undergoing treatment for cancer which was diagnosed in February, while Princess Catherine recently completed chemotherapy. The family has not disclosed what forms of cancer the King and Princess were diagnosed with.
“I’m so proud of my wife, I’m proud of my father, for handling the things that they have done,” William said. “But from a personal family point of view, it’s been brutal.”
William was in South Africa for the annual Earthshot Prize, founded by the Prince. The prize recognises innovative projects addressing environmental issues.
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William launched the Earthshot Prize in 2020. The name is a nod to John F. Kennedy’s “moonshot” project which led to the 1969 lunar landing.
Princess Kate did not accompany her husband, as she continues to recover after finishing her course of preventative chemotherapy. Buckingham Palace has confirmed the Princess will attend this year’s Remembrance events in London over the weekend.
