King Charles is set to temporarily halt his cancer treatment while he undertakes an important visit abroad following the go-ahead from his medical team.
The monarch, alongside Queen Camilla, is poised for a high-profile journey to Australia and Samoa next week for an autumn tour, the Mirror reports.
Their Royal Highnesses will embark on a nine-day trip, touching down in the countries on October 18, with their itinerary featuring a four-day stint in Samoa for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting taking place on the picturesque island.
Since receiving a cancer diagnosis in February, 75-year-old Charles has been undergoing regular weekly treatments. Yet, it is understood that there will be an 11-day interruption during his time overseas, after which treatment is expected to recommence upon his return home.
In the run-up to this significant journey which will be Charles first visit to Australia as the reigning monarch, the King has been rigorously adhering to a revitalised health routine, finding solace in nature and the warmth of family gatherings.
Insiders reveal that Charles, a long-time advocate of alternative medicinal approaches, has augmented his chemotherapy with a deep-seated passion for the outdoors. Those close to the sovereign suggest that Charles credits his resolve to “get lots of fresh air and encourage family visits” as a crucial element in his ongoing battle against the illness.
It’s been revealed that the ‘workaholic’ Charles has been cautiously advised to moderate his demanding schedule as he finds respite and purpose in concentrating on his recovery and returning to peak form.
An insider commented: “The King, by his very nature, is a workaholic. If he’s not on public engagements, he is working on the next set while staying across his government papers or responding to correspondence.”
Despite recommendations to take it easy, the monarch has persisted with his duties, recognising the importance of public presence, an insider revealed. “He hasn’t really slowed down despite the protests from those around him, but it has been important to him to remain to be seen.
“Even during his treatment, he was keen to make sure things were in place for him to make a full-time return. Now things are moving in a very positive direction which has enabled him to make long-term plans.”
Speculation that the King might undertake 12 engagements daily during his visits to Australia and Samoa was put to rest by royal aides. They affirmed that every precaution has been taken to adapt the details to ensure Charles remains well, in line with advice from palace medics who are assured he can forgo his cancer treatments while travelling.
The trip will include a poignant stop for Charles and Camilla at the Australian War Memorial and the “For our Country” memorial, honouring the service of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. In Canberra, the capital city, they will be greeted at the Australian parliament by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The royal pair are set to attend a barbeque in Sydney and pay a visit to the iconic opera house situated on the harbour. Most notably, the King is scheduled to meet with two cancer doctors, both Australians of the Year, who have been acknowledged for their contributions to skin cancer research.
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