Family is vital, this proves it

THEY always tell us cancer is the great leveller, and, well, this week confirms it. Yet I’m still shocked King Charles has been diagnosed.

I met him once, at a polo match with Brian in Windsor. Brian being Brian, he got chatting and Charles was lovely. Prince Harry, playing too, came over to say goodbye to his “Pa”, said he’d call him later, kissed him, and then lifted off in a helicopter. What a fabulous exit.

We’re used to our royals being ruddy and robust. And quite frankly, rich, with the best possible care. So the news has been unnerving, and has truly saddened me. Charles has waited so long for the top job, to now confront cancer feels so unfair.

But cancer is unfair. I know that. We all know that. It doesn’t discriminate.

TATTOOED

Strip away the crown, the palaces and the private care, and, for once, I know exactly how Charles will be feeling. We’re suddenly just two humans, scared. When I was diagnosed, the first thought that came into my head was: ‘Will I die?’

I’d give Charles two pieces of advice. Not my usual, get your eyebrows tattooed before treatment. But first, do as you’re told! (Sorry, sir) Doctors do know best.

And second, talk to someone you won’t be worried about upsetting. I’ve had counselling on and off since 2006 and there I can be a mess. He will stay upbeat for Camilla, Wills and Harry, but he’ll need his moments.

Finally, and I’m sure he’s looking for silver linings as we all do, there is at least one. Harry came home to see his “Pa” again.

When Bernie was very ill with her cancer some of us sisters had fallen out and hadn’t been speaking. But the moment the news came all that paled into insignificance. We all met in Blackpool for a party, and laughed again. Family is the most important thing, cancer makes that very clear.