King Charles met chemotherapy patients and had a go on a robot used in surgery during a visit to Guy's Hospital in central London on Monday. The visit marked the 300th anniversary of the hospital.
King Tries Da Vinci Surgical System
Charles, who is still receiving treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer, was shown the Da Vinci surgical system by Professor Ben Challacombe at Guy's Cancer Centre. The system includes arms with instrument holders and a camera holder controlled through a console. It enables quicker recovery, fewer scars, and less pain, the King was told.
Charles then tried the console himself, sitting at a stool and looking through a screen for a 3D view. He used the tools to direct the robot, joking: "I think I need more practice." A £5 note showing his face was placed on the table to demonstrate how far the machine could zoom in. Professor Challacombe told the King: "We'll have to get you back for a full immersive course." Charles asked: "And less invasive, you said?" Professor Challacombe replied: "Yes, much quicker recovery."
Unveiling Plaque and Meeting Patients
The King unveiled a plaque marking the 300th anniversary of Guy's Hospital, met doctors and nurses, and was briefed on research projects at King's College London Innovation Hub. He was presented with a book on the hospital's history by Professor Stephen Challacombe, Professor Ben Challacombe's father. Charles joked it was "a little light bedtime reading" and commented on how "frightfully heavy" it was.
At the innovation hub, Charles, who is patron of King's College London, was briefed on cancer research projects. The hub brings cancer research and patient treatment under one roof, with scientists analysing samples from patients in the chemotherapy village below to develop personalised treatments. Charles asked many questions, including about the accuracy of AI in cancer work: "What proportion of the time is it right? Because it's not always right."
Charles visited the chemotherapy village and met patients, including David Coleman, 77, who is on a new immunotherapy drug. Coleman joked he was "a guinea pig," and they shared a laugh. Graham Peiser, 69, told the King it was a "world-class facility." After unveiling the plaque to applause and cheers, Charles spoke with crowds inside and outside the hospital.
King's Cancer Journey
Charles was diagnosed with cancer at age 75, less than a year and a half into his reign. The disease was discovered during a corrective procedure for a benign enlarged prostate. Buckingham Palace announced the news in February 2024, describing it as a "form of cancer" but not prostate cancer. In December 2025, Charles revealed that his treatment was being reduced in the new year due to early diagnosis and effective intervention. He has been receiving treatment as an outpatient since early February 2024.
Professor Ben Challacombe noted after the visit: "He was very interested in what this could do in terms of improving outcomes for patients. I could see he was speaking from the point of view of having been through treatment himself."
