King Charles’ wife, Queen Camilla, said Thursday that he was doing “very well.” (document)

London:

Britain’s King Charles thanked well-wishers on Saturday after being diagnosed with cancer, his first public comments since Buckingham Palace announced he would postpone some events to undergo treatment.

“I would like to express my sincerest gratitude for the many supports and well wishes I have received in recent days,” Charles said in a statement.

Buckingham Palace announced on Monday that Charles, 75, had been diagnosed with a form of cancer less than 18 months after taking the throne.

“As anyone who has been affected by cancer knows, such kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement,” Charles said.

The King said he was heartened to hear how his diagnosis had helped raise awareness of organizations supporting cancer patients in the UK and elsewhere.

News of Charles’ cancer came after he spent three nights in hospital last month undergoing corrective surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Buckingham Palace did not reveal any details about his condition other than to say it was not prostate cancer, but said the king remained “fully positive” and looked forward to returning to public duties as soon as possible.

Charles’ wife, Queen Camilla, said on Thursday that Charles was doing “very well.”

With the king undergoing treatment and Prince William’s wife Kate recovering from abdominal surgery, the remaining royals – especially William and Camilla – have a responsibility to present the monarchy to the public.

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