King Charles visits Macmillan Cancer Centre in York and plants a rose in its newly created garden
Charles planted a rose in a newly created garden designed to offer a calm space for visitors to the centre
King Charles has paid a heartfelt visit to York Hospital to recognise the work of staff and patients at the newly redeveloped Sir Robert Ogden Macmillan Cancer Centre — a visit made all the more poignant given that the King himself is currently undergoing cancer treatment.
The monarch, who has served as Patron of Macmillan Cancer Support since 1997, met healthcare workers, volunteers, and local people living with cancer during the special engagement.
A centre shaped by those it serves
The official Instagram account of the British Royal Family shared photographs from the visit, with the palace writing in the caption: "Recognising the inspiring @macmillancancer patients and staff."
The caption continued: "The King, Patron of Macmillan Cancer Support since 1997, visited York Hospital — the site of the newly redeveloped Sir Robert Ogden Macmillan Cancer Centre."
It added: "His Majesty met staff and patients including local people with lived experience of cancer who contributed to the centre's design."
A rose planted in a garden of calm
In a quietly symbolic moment during the visit, the King planted a rose in the centre's newly created garden — a tranquil space specifically designed to allow visitors to enjoy nature and find moments of peace during their time at the facility.
"The King also planted a rose in the garden, a new calm space created for visitors to enjoy nature during their time at the centre," the palace confirmed.
A personal connection to the cause
The visit carries particular resonance as King Charles himself was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer in early 2024 and has been receiving treatment since.
His medical team has reportedly confirmed that the monarch is responding exceptionally well, with his treatment now having moved into what has been described as a "precautionary phase."
