Irish President Michael D. Higgins extends ‘best wishes’ to Britain’s King Charles following cancer diagnosis

Irish President Michael D Higgins has sent his best wishes to Britain’s King Charles, who recently announced that he has been diagnosed with cancer.

The King, who ascended to the throne in 2022 after the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, revealed that he has started a schedule of regular treatments for the disease, which is not prostate cancer.

President Higgins said he was “deeply saddened” to hear the news and hoped that the King would make a full and speedy recovery. He also praised the King for his courage and transparency in sharing his diagnosis with the public, saying that it would help to raise awareness and reduce stigma around cancer.

“Ireland and Britain share a close and enduring friendship, which has been strengthened by the King’s visit to Ireland in 2022 and his support for the peace process in Northern Ireland,” President Higgins said. “On behalf of the people of Ireland, I extend my solidarity and sympathy to the King, his family and the British people at this difficult time.”

The King’s diagnosis has sparked an outpouring of messages of support worldwide, including from other heads of state, political leaders, celebrities and ordinary citizens. His son Prince Harry, who lives in the US with his wife Meghan Markle and their two children, reportedly plans to fly home to see his father after speaking to him about his condition.

The King’s spokesperson said he was “very touched” by the expressions of goodwill and remained “positive and determined” to continue his royal duties as much as possible. He also thanked the medical staff caring for him and urged everyone to follow their doctors’ advice and get regular check-ups.

Sola Adeniji

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