Duchess of Cornwall marks World Cancer Day with poignant message during this ‘extremely challenging time’

Duchess Camilla sent her 'very best wishes' to those living with cancer

Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visits Maggie's Barts at St Bartholomew's Hospital on October 07, 2020 in London, England
(Image credit: Photo by Samir Hussein/WireImage via Getty)

The Duchess of Cornwall marked World Cancer Day yesterday with a heartfelt message in which she revealed her hope that the "devastating disease" can one day be defeated. 

The Duchess of Cornwall has taken to social media to share a particularly poignant message in what she described as an “extremely challenging time”. Throughout the pandemic, Duchess Camilla has maintained her commitment to royal duties. Restrictions throughout last year and so far in 2021 have meant in-person royal engagements are often not possible. 

However, like many other members of the Royal Family, Duchess Camilla has found other ways to connect with people. Utilizing social media, she has continued to show support and understanding to so many. 

Marking World Cancer Day yesterday, the Duchess of Cornwall shared an incredibly moving message. In a post made on the official Clarence House Instagram page, Duchess Camilla addressed the challenges faced by those living with cancer at this incredibly difficult time.

She wrote: ‘As the proud President of Maggie’s, I wanted to mark World Cancer Day by sending my very best wishes to all those who are living with cancer at this extremely challenging time. You are very much in my thoughts and prayers today.’

‘I should also like to thank, from the bottom of my heart, those who are working to create a future without cancer. You give us hope that, together, we will be able to defeat this devastating disease.’ 

The Duchess of Cornwall has been President of Maggie's since 2008. This vital charity helps support people with cancer, their family and friends in centers across the UK and abroad. Last year Duchess Camilla’s husband Prince Charles also spoke out to address his concerns about the impact the pandemic could be having on cancer treatment. 

Writing a deeply poignant piece for The Telegraph, the Prince of Wales - who is a Patron of MacMillan Cancer Support - discussed concerns about cancer becoming “the Forgotten C". He also praised the British people's 'formidable will and compassion'.

‘Compassion, we have learned, has not become fatigued; it has strengthened with use’, Prince Charles wrote. 

Emma Shacklock

Emma is a Royal Editor with eight years experience working in publishing. Her specialist areas include the British Royal Family, ranging from protocol to outfits. Alongside putting her royal knowledge to good use, Emma knows all there is to know about the latest TV shows on the BBC, ITV and more. When she’s not writing about the next unmissable show to add to your to-watch list or delving into royal protocol, Emma enjoys cooking, long walks and watching yet more crime dramas!