By Julia, BBC News, 5 August 2025

In February 2024, the world was stunned when Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles III had been diagnosed with cancer. After a brief absence, he made a surprising return to a packed royal schedule, leaving many wondering: how does he manage to carry on as king under such circumstances?

Most recently, on May 27, 2025, King Charles embarked on a historic trip to Canada—his first visit since ascending the throne in 2022. Alongside Queen Camilla, he opened the 45th Canadian Parliament, marking only the second time a British monarch has delivered a speech there, following Queen Elizabeth in 1957. But what enables him to maintain such peak performance?

A senior royal aide revealed to BBC: “I genuinely don’t see any difference in the King. Medical science has made incredible advances, and he’s following the doctors’ advice: live as normal a life as possible.”

In March 2025, King Charles was admitted to the London Clinic for monitoring due to temporary side effects from his ongoing cancer treatment. While no specific details about his condition were shared, Buckingham Palace confirmed he is recovering positively. “It’s just a minor bump on the right path,” a royal source stated at the time.

The Canada visit was not just a diplomatic event but a testament to King Charles’ unyielding spirit. In his speech at the Canadian Parliament, he skillfully navigated his role as head of state while emphasizing the allied relationship between the UK and Canada, amid controversial remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump about Canada potentially becoming “the 51st state.”

Ailsa Anderson, former press secretary to Queen Elizabeth, commented: “His speech was a masterclass in diplomacy. It could have gone off course, but he handled it brilliantly.”

“He’s faced his illness in a very human way,” the royal aide shared. “His interactions with the public show a king who is approachable and sincere, yet maintains the traditional qualities of the monarchy.”

The Canada trip not only reaffirmed King Charles’ role but also sent a powerful message: cancer cannot stop him from fulfilling his duties. “The Carolean era is taking clear shape, representing a blend of tradition and modernity,” the aide added.

King Charles’ journey is a story of courage and perseverance. Want to dive deeper into unforgettable royal moments? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to stay updated on the latest news about King Charles, Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle, and more!