After King Charles III’s recent announcement regarding his cancer diagnosis, it was anticipated that Prince William would assume additional responsibilities to cover for his father’s potential absence during treatment. However, Prince William faces his own family health challenges, with his wife, Kate Middleton, undergoing recovery from a planned abdominal surgery performed in January.
Stepping into the spotlight unexpectedly, Queen Camilla has taken on the forefront of royal duties, managing tasks that other family members may not be able to fulfill, even if it means venturing out in adverse weather conditions. Yet, even the seemingly tireless 76-year-old monarch has her limitations, evident as her schedule for the upcoming week has been cleared.
According to reports from the Sunday Times, Camilla will be refraining from all engagements until March 11, when she is slated to attend the annual Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey.
The service, commemorating an alliance of 56 independent member countries across various continents, is a significant event where Camilla is expected to represent Charles and lead the royal family. Notably, this ceremony has seen the absence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in recent years.
Queen Camilla (Credits: PEOPLE)
This year, both Charles and Middleton are anticipated to miss the ceremony. Middleton, as confirmed by Buckingham Palace weeks ago, will be recovering from her surgery until Easter, falling on March 31 this year.
With Camilla taking a step back, the responsibility now falls on royal siblings Princess Anne and Prince Edward to step up. In the days ahead, they will be attending events at various locations including the Rising Brook Community Church, Savoy Chapel, the Right Stuff Amateur Boxing Club, and the National Equine Forum.
During this period, Camilla will spend time with the king and her own family before resuming her duties the following Monday. A royal source shared insights with the Times, stating, “Although she was not expecting to find herself in the position of leading the family, the Queen is absolutely prepared to do whatever needs to be done for the institution.”
The source also highlighted Camilla’s newfound reservoirs of energy, which have earned her heightened admiration within the palace as she diligently shoulders her responsibilities.
