King Charles’s resolve to participate in Trooping the Colour remains unwavering, despite his battle with cancer, as indicated by sources close to the monarch.
The Trooping of the Colour Ceremony, a tradition dating back to the seventeenth century, commemorates the Sovereign’s official birthday and is slated for June 15 this year. Initially, the King had decided to abstain from large public gatherings following his cancer diagnosis in January. Nevertheless, he has admirably persisted in fulfilling his duties, engaging with world leaders and conducting affairs at Buckingham Palace amidst his treatment.
Reports suggest that aides are contemplating how Charles could still make an appearance. Insider information shared with the Mail suggests that within the parameters of his ongoing treatment, there may be possibilities for his participation, with Trooping the Colour being a priority event for the King.
Last year’s ceremony witnessed King Charles participating on horseback during the parade, marking the first such instance for a reigning monarch since 1986 when Queen Elizabeth II last did so. Options similar to this, such as observing the military spectacle from a podium after possibly riding on horseback, are being considered for the King.
In January, Buckingham Palace officially disclosed Charles’s cancer diagnosis, though the specifics regarding the type of cancer and treatment regimen were not divulged. It was clarified that Charles does not have prostate cancer, but rather the diagnosis stemmed from tests conducted following a prostate procedure.
The attendance of other members of the royal family at the event remains uncertain. While Prince William and Camilla have continued their royal duties in Charles’s absence, Kate Middleton has faced health challenges of her own recently, undergoing abdominal surgery in January. As of March, it was emphasized by royal sources that confirmation of senior royals’ attendance is typically nearer to the event date. Both Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace stated that due to the ongoing medical situations of the King and the Princess, they are unable to confirm their attendance at the June event.
