Princess of Wales Will Not Attend Large-Scale Military Exhibition in Upcoming Month Due to Cancer Therapy Sessions
On June 8th, a ceremonial parade takes place as a practice run for the King's official birthday celebration known as Trooping the Colour, which occurs a week later on June 15th. It's uncertain if Kate will skip this annual military event, a centerpiece of the British royal calendar teeming with grandeur.
Many had hoped that Kate, aged 42 and adored by many, may preside over the dress rehearsal as she's the Colonel of the Irish Guards. The Irish Guards will exhibit their flags during this year's show.
In her absence, Lt. Gen. James Bucknall will take charge of saluting. He served as the Commander of the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps and has attended every Sovereign's Birthday Parade since 2009, having spent more than 45 years as a Coldstream Guards Officer.
Kate hasn't participated in any public events since December but was supposed to make her comeback after Easter. But she admitted to having cancer and beginning chemotherapy in March.
A royal source disclosed to CNN that she wouldn't rejoin her royal duties until her doctor gives the all-clear. There were also rumors about King Charles' attendance at next month's Trooping the Colour due to his ongoing cancer treatment. Palace officials have since said he'll be present.
Adjusting slightly from the previous year, King Charles, now 75, will inspect soldiers from a carriage instead of riding a horse. He'll oversee the parade with Queen Camilla by his side.
This shift in plans followed previous advice from the royal household that each engagement involving the King would be looked into, with adjustments made depending on his doctor's recommendations. King Charles informed the public of his cancer fight in February but is now back to performing royal tasks despite his ongoing treatment.
The Trooping the Colour festivities are usually punctuated with the members of the royal family appearing on the Buckingham Palace balcony to greet spectators after the parade.
Contributing to this story: CNN's Lauren Kent.
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Despite Kate's cancer therapy sessions, there were discussions about her potential attendance at the Irish Guards' flag exhibition during the Trooping the Colour rehearsal. Regardless, the UK is still a significant part of the world's monarchies, and the event will undoubtedly capture global interest.
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