In 2024, various members of the British Royal Family are facing major health challenges.
Now it’s the queen’s turn.
This time, the palace isn’t trying to hide it. Queen Camilla is feeling unwell and has canceled all public appearances for the time being to undergo treatment.
Here’s what we know so far:
Queen Camilla ‘unwell’
2024 is unlikely to be a great year for the health of the British royal family.
On Tuesday, November 5, Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles’ wife, Queen Camilla, is suffering from a chest infection.
The illness forced her to cancel her public appearances that week.
Buckingham Palace said in a statement to the BBC: “Her Majesty the Queen is currently unwell with a chest infection and doctors are recommending a short period of rest.”
A palace spokesperson continued: “It is with great regret that Her Majesty the Queen has been forced to withdraw from royal duties this week.”
A statement on behalf of the Royal Office assured: “However, it is our strong hope that she will recover in time to attend this weekend’s memorial service as normal.”
Will Camila recover quickly?
Queen Camilla is 77 years old. Most people continue to believe that she is recovering in her luxurious home and receiving top-notch medical care.
However, the only thing we officially know about her health status at this time is Buckingham Palace’s official statement.
However, we also know that Birgitte, Duchess of Gloucester will be her replacement. She will attend the opening of this year’s Field of Remembrance event at Westminster Abbey. It is unclear whether Birgitte will also be attending Charles’ reception for Olympic and Paralympic athletes on Thursday night.
Charles and Camilla recently toured Australia and Samoa.
Celebrating independence from British rule is the most popular secular holiday on the planet, but there are many countries that are nominally tied to Britain, especially the monarchy. In most cases, this is just a ceremony, but it does mean that members of the British royal family visit different countries.
Domestic and international encounters can expose people to many pathogens. Traveling takes a lot out of you. And despite the medical care afforded to them by their vast wealth, Charles and Camilla are likely more susceptible to some illnesses due to their age.
This year has been a difficult year for the royal family.
In February, the world learned of King Charles’ cancer diagnosis. He returned to public service in April, but questions remain about his long-term health.
More famously, Duchess Kate spent the first few months of 2024 as a complete recluse. Kate revealed her cancer diagnosis when her Royal Farms cover story (and Photoshop flop) went awry. She underwent months of chemotherapy and completed the process in September.
I just hope Camila is just sick and this isn’t another cover story for something more serious.
