King Charles Briefly Hospitalised Amid Cancer Treatment but Remains “In Good Spirits”

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King Charles III spent a short time in hospital on Thursday after experiencing temporary side effects linked to his ongoing cancer treatment, Buckingham Palace confirmed. The visit was described as precautionary, with the King returning later that day to Clarence House, where he continued with official work and phone calls.

Although the specific side effects were not disclosed, palace sources stressed that it was a “most minor bump in a road that is very much heading in the right direction.” The King, 76, was said to be “feeling good” by Thursday evening, even dining with Queen Camilla and reviewing state papers.

On medical advice, however, the King has postponed a planned visit to Birmingham scheduled for Friday, which was to include four public engagements. He expressed disappointment about missing the events and offered his “deepest apologies” to everyone involved in organising the visit.

Meetings with three ambassadors originally planned for Thursday were also affected.

This marks a rare interruption in what has otherwise been a busy schedule for the monarch, who has maintained an active public presence despite his diagnosis. In recent weeks, he has undertaken a visit to Northern Ireland, launched a personal playlist of favourite music, and attended the Commonwealth Day service.

Observers say the King has made a point of staying engaged with royal duties, appearing energetic and upbeat throughout. Author and royal commentator Robert Hardman noted that many had even “forgotten” about the King’s condition because of how present and active he has been in public life.

“This is a sort of reminder that this is a head of state who is undergoing treatment for cancer,” Hardman said in a radio interview.

The King’s recent diplomatic engagements have also placed him firmly in the spotlight. He extended an invitation to U.S. President Donald Trump for a second state visit, expressed public solidarity with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky following his tense meeting with Trump, and welcomed Canada’s new Prime Minister Mark Carney amid tensions between Canada and the U.S.

A separate postponement of a state visit to the Vatican, announced earlier this week, was said to be due to the health of Pope Francis, not the King. The rest of the Italian visit is still expected to go ahead in April, though with some adjustments.

The type of cancer the King is being treated for has not been disclosed publicly. He returned to public duties last April following an earlier period of treatment and recovery. Buckingham Palace has maintained a tone of cautious optimism, indicating that his diary is expected to return to normal as early as next week.

Following the announcement, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer extended his best wishes to the King for a continued recovery.

For more updates, follow London Pulse News.

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