The Daily Telegraph - Saturday
Well-wishers tell grateful King : Family is the main thing
THE King has received 7,000 get well cards and letters since he was diagnosed with cancer, with members of the public writing with advice including a moving reminder that “the main thing is family”.
The King, who has said he has been moved to tears by the well wishes, has been photographed reading some of his correspondence including colourful home-made cards from children.
“Chin up, chest out, remain positive and don’t let it get you down,” said one adult letter writer, offering words of wisdom after their own illness. “Trust me, it works, but the main thing is family.”
Pictured sitting at a desk in the 18thcentury room of Buckingham Palace’s Belgian Suite, the King is seen laughing at a card featuring an illustration of a dog. The pet wears an Elizabethan collar – or “cone of shame” – after having veterinary treatment. The caption reads: “At least you don’t have to wear a cone!”
Dozens of cards can be seen inside the King’s red box of the day among his state papers. The Buckingham Palace correspondence team is said to have received 7,000 written messages from around the world.
They said they have “been a source of frequent laughter and good cheer”. The King’s has said they “reduced me to tears most of the time”.
Many shared their own experiences of cancer, offering advice as well as supportive messages.
Since his diagnosis, the King has been supported by the Queen who has also taken on extra royal engagements. His son the Prince of Wales has spent time with him alongside caring for the Princess of Wales as she recovers from serious abdominal surgery.