Rizna Mutmainah
Caring

"I was not alone": Another royal diagnosed with cancer

Not long after King Charles announced his cancer diagnosis, Crown Prince Alexander of Yugoslavia felt inspired by his "dear cousin and friend" and decided to go public with his own prostate cancer diagnosis. 

In a statement, Prince Alexander shared that he was moved by Charles’ courage in sharing his diagnosis with the public, as royal health matters are usually kept private. 

The 78-year-old royal then shared details of his own medical intervention. 

"The love of all of us who know him, and of his people, we deeply care for him, will support His Majesty in persevering and winning this most important battle. The news that it is early stage gives high hope," he said.

"The unfortunate news about cancer is not something you wish to hear.

"And I can say it personally, as I very well know how you feel once you hear it. How frightening and terrifying it is also for the family, how all the feelings get mixed up, and how you cannot think about anything else." 

He then revealed: "I can say it now because I only recently defeated cancer.

"I had avoided speaking about it, as it is a personal matter concerning only me and my family, but King Charles' openness moved me and encouraged me to also speak up," he added. 

"I am sharing this now, because this kind of tragic news can encourage people to react and take care of their health."

He added that news of King Charles' cancer diagnosis and his honesty about getting a check-up had resulted in a rise in online searches and appointments for medical check-ups in the UK.

“That is why people should hear my story, to see it is something that can happen to all of us,” he said.

“But when we are responsible, the outcome can be good.”

He shared details of his own treatment, which began two years ago, after results from an MRI found a cancerous growth. 

"At that moment, I was terrified. But I was not alone.

"I am not speaking about family and friends who knew this and shared their support, which meant so much and cannot be described in words, but also all the other people who are fighting this disease."

He then underwent pre-intervention tests, surgery, and mandatory checkups, and has since received “the most joyous words from my doctor — ‘All is clear now’.”

He then urged the public to be more vigilant about their health, and to not put of their doctors appointment any further. 

“Be responsible with yourself, listen to the doctor’s advice, and monitor your health,” he said.

“Preserve it and nurture it as the greatest wealth and gift you will ever receive.”

Images: Getty

Tags:
Health, Caring, Cancer, Royals, King Charles, Crown Prince Alexander