Alexander Sammon
Updated on: October 16, 2024 6:13 am GMT
In a surprising revelation, former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson claims in his upcoming memoir that Queen Elizabeth II suffered from bone cancer before her death. This assertion, made public ahead of the book’s release on October 10, sheds light on the possible struggles of one of Britain’s most beloved monarchs in her final days.
Boris Johnson’s Claims
Johnson’s memoir, titled “Unleashed,” includes detailed accounts of his interactions with the Queen. He recalls visiting her at Balmoral, Scotland, just two days before her passing in September 2022. In his writing, he expresses that he had been aware of the Queen’s health issues for some time, stating, “I had known for a year or more that she had a form of bone cancer, and her doctors were worried that at any time she could enter a sharp decline.”
- The Queen’s death certificate lists her cause of death as “old age.”
- This is the first public claim from a senior official regarding her specific health issues.
- The memoir has created a stir given Buckingham Palace’s usual policy, which avoids commenting on books about the royal family.
The Last Audience
Johnson describes his last encounter with the Queen as both poignant and revealing. He mentions being oriented about her decline by Edward Young, the Queen’s private secretary. Johnson observed notable changes in her appearance:
- The Queen appeared pale and stooped.
- He noticed dark bruising on her hands, likely due to medical treatments.
Despite her health struggles, Johnson noted that the Queen’s mind remained sharp, and she retained her warm smile. He referred to their weekly meetings as “a privilege” and a source of comfort.
What He Said
During his reflections, he wrote: “She radiated such an ethic of service, patience, and leadership that you really felt you would, if necessary, die for her.” Johnson highlights the loyalty and respect the Queen inspired in those around her.
Royal Family’s Privacy
Typically, members of the royal family maintain strict privacy regarding their health. King Charles III and Catherine, Princess of Wales have been exceptions in some ways, as they shared personal experiences with their own health challenges without specifying details about their diagnoses.
- The royal household continues to assert the importance of personal medical privacy.
- Johnson’s memoir deviates from this precedent, stirring public and media interest.
Public Reaction
The public’s response to Johnson’s claims has been mixed. Some express concern over the appropriateness of discussing the Queen’s health issues after her death, while others appreciate the insights into her final days. Several media outlets and public figures have commented, emphasizing the delicate balance between transparency and respect for the royal family’s privacy.
As this memoir creates waves, it is essential to consider the narrative we form about iconic figures. Johnson’s perspectives signal a shift from the traditional silence surrounding royal health, inviting both curiosity and criticism.
Conclusion
In his book “Unleashed,” Boris Johnson shares some surprising stories about the last days of Queen Elizabeth II. He talks about her health issues, which makes us think about how much we should know about important people. The royal family usually likes to keep things private, so this book is a big change from that. As people get ready to read it, discussions about the monarchy are changing too.
