Speculation surrounding King Charles’ health has once again taken centre stage after the monarch was seen using a walking stick during recent public outings. Though some royal watchers expressed concern, palace sources suggest there’s no cause for alarm.
The 76-year-old sovereign was spotted holding a walking stick during two notable appearances – the Chelsea Flower Show on Tuesday, 20 May, and the Royal Windsor Horse Show over the weekend.
It wasn’t just any stick, though. While attending the Chelsea Flower Show, King Charles carried a rustic-looking cane carved from an actual tree branch – a fitting accessory for the nature-themed occasion.
Over the weekend, he was also seen with a stick at the horse show, sparking a fresh wave of online chatter about his health.
Despite the murmurings, sources told Hello! Magazine that the stick is merely a traditional item rather than a medical necessity.
Royal followers were quick to defend the King. Several social media users highlighted Charles’ long-standing history of using walking sticks during similar events. One user on X (formerly Twitter) shared a series of photos of the King using a stick over the years, even in his younger days.
Although reassurances have been made, public concern isn’t without basis. The King’s health has been under scrutiny since he revealed his cancer diagnosis in early 2024.
The type of cancer has not been disclosed, and updates remain scarce. However, it’s widely believed that King Charles is continuing treatment while maintaining a visible presence in royal duties.
Despite his diagnosis, the King has shown no sign of stepping back from his role. His recent appearances show a monarch keen to stay active, even if it means leaning on a stick now and then.
For now, the palace appears to be sticking to its narrative — that this is a style choice, not a symptom.
As one insider reportedly said, “It’s just part of his usual toolkit.”
But for a nation watching closely, every public moment brings fresh interpretation.
