King Charles has dropped by to visit Princess Kate in hospital as he checked into the London Clinic for his operation for an enlarged prostate.
Kensington Palace confirmed last week that Kate had undergone abdominal surgery at the Clinic and would be recovering as an inpatient for up to two weeks.
Although Prince William has frequently been to visit her, it is not common for royals to accompany each other to hospital, making Queen Camilla’s decision to travel to the Clinic with the King an unusual one.
Daily Mail royal editor Rebecca English said that this display of affection from Charles is a very positive sign for the Firm, as she wrote: “Although they live very public lives, monarchy can actually be quite a lonely path to walk at times.
“Senior family members do not, generally, like to draw attention to themselves or their loved ones.”
In spite of protocol the King wants to support Kate at what has no doubt been a lonely time for her, as she has been separated from her children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
Ms English added: “As we are fast coming to learn, Charles, 75, is not afraid to do things differently. He has come to adore Kate, with whom he has bonded not just over mutual loves, such as music and art, but also over his grandchildren.
“The King thinks she is doing a ‘wonderful’ job bringing up George, Charlotte and Louis, and is appreciative of the very stable little family unit she and William have created.
“Surely there can be no stronger signal of their bond than the princess being so happy to see her father-in-law following what is clearly serious and debilitating surgery?”
A statement released last week from Buckingham Palace read: “In common with thousands of men each year, the King has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate. His Majesty’s condition is benign and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure.
“The King’s public engagements will be postponed for a short period of recuperation.”
His Majesty’s openness has also protected his daughter-in-law Princess Kate from increased media scrutiny as the Palace have kept quiet about the exact nature of her condition so far.
