As King Charles’ health continues to falter, palace insiders reveal the British monarch is busy working on ensuring the transition of son William, Prince of Wales and his wife Catherine, Princess of Wales to their new roles as heads of state is as smooth as possible.
Having just returned from their tour of Italy, where King Charles and Queen Camilla celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary, sources say the trip – which came off the back of a brief hospital stay – was a turning point for Charles.
“Charles came back from Italy renewed, but his priorities have changed,” an insider says. “His hospital stay was a reminder that he’s lucky to be here at all.
“As hard as it’s been for him to admit it, he knows it’s time to get serious about delegating his duties. He’s much more accepting of his role in preparing the family for William to take over.”
TRAUMA BONDED
Having formed a close bond with his daughter-in-law, Charles, 76, is giving as much guidance as the 43-year-old needs as she steps up as queen.
“Charles and Kate are trauma bonded over their cancer battles” the insider says. “It was an unprecedented situation and a very scary one, which is why he’s ensured her recovery has been treated with ‘kid gloves’.
“Giving her the Royal Marsden Hospital patronage reflects his encouragement of their connections to cancer care while building up her portfolio as a world leader. Kate’s one of the family’s most valuable assets and while Charles knows William will make a good king, with Kate’s unwavering support, he’ll be a great king.”
Both Anne, Princess Royal, 74, and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, 60, have stepped up as senior royals since Charles’ cancer diagnosis. On April 11, Sophie represented the King at the Sovereign’s Parade at Sandhurst Royal Military Academy.
ALL HANDS ON DECK
“The whole family are ready to step up with new responsibilities as Charles hands the reins over to William,” the insider notes.
Queen Mary of Denmark, 53, has also become a close friend of Kate’s and is helping her prepare for her ascent to the throne.
“Kate values the input of Anne, Sophie and Camilla, but she’s also been leaning on the Queen of Denmark,” the insider says. “Mary’s made herself available to Kate every week for a catch-up. She knows exactly how she feels.”
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