Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has sent shockwaves through the UK with revelations about the late Queen Elizabeth II’s health in his new memoir, “Unleashed.” Johnson, a close confidante of the Queen during his time in office, claims that the monarch had been battling a “form of bone cancer” in the year leading up to her death.
The Queen’s Deteriorating Health: Bruises, Frailty, and Unwavering Spirit
In his book, Johnson describes noticing visible signs of the Queen’s declining health during their meetings. He recounts that she appeared “pale and more stooped” than usual, with “dark bruising on her hands and wrists.” These details align with observations made from the Queen’s final public photograph, taken just two days before her passing, where faint bruising is visible on her hands as she waited to officially appoint Liz Truss as her successor.
Despite her physical ailments, Johnson emphasizes that the Queen’s “mind was completely unimpaired.” He fondly recalls her “sudden mood-lifting beauty” and the enduring brilliance of her smile, highlighting her unwavering spirit and dedication to duty even in her final days.
Queen Elizabeth II's final public photograph, showing faint bruising on her hands
A Legacy of Strength and Resilience: The Queen’s Determination to Serve
Johnson’s memoir paints a poignant picture of a monarch determined to fulfill her duties despite her private health battles. He asserts that the Queen “knew all summer that she was going” but remained steadfast in her commitment to a seamless transition of power. Her dedication, as described by Johnson, underscores the strength and resilience that defined her historic 70-year reign.
Buckingham Palace Remains Silent: No Confirmation or Denial of Johnson’s Claims
As expected, Buckingham Palace has declined to comment on the claims made in Johnson’s memoir. The Royal Family has maintained a strict policy of not commenting on speculative reports or personal accounts concerning their health. This silence leaves the public to grapple with the revelations about the Queen’s final days without official confirmation or denial from the Palace.
A History of Health Concerns Within the Royal Family: Cancer’s Shadow Lingers
The Queen’s reported battle with bone cancer, if true, sadly aligns with a history of cancer diagnoses within the Royal Family. Her eldest son, King Charles III, publicly announced his own battle with an unspecified form of cancer earlier this year. Similarly, Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, revealed her completed chemotherapy treatment for an undisclosed cancer diagnosis. These instances underscore the pervasiveness of the disease, even within one of the world’s most prominent families.
Prince Harry Honors Children Battling Serious Illnesses: A Touching Tribute Amidst Family Turmoil
Adding another layer of complexity to the narrative, Prince Harry, the Queen’s grandson, made a poignant appearance in London just days after Johnson’s revelations. The Duke of Sussex attended a charity event honoring children battling serious illnesses, drawing attention to the challenges faced by families confronting these health crises.
During the event, Harry expressed his awe for the unwavering dedication of parents and caregivers, acknowledging the “emotional roller coaster of parenting” and praising their tireless efforts. His presence at the event, while geographically close to Buckingham Palace, served as a reminder of the ongoing familial tensions following his departure from royal duties.
Unanswered Questions and Lingering Speculation: A Nation Reflects on a Queen’s Legacy
Boris Johnson’s memoir has undoubtedly sparked intense public interest and speculation about the final chapter of Queen Elizabeth II’s life. While Buckingham Palace remains silent, the former Prime Minister’s account provides a glimpse into the Queen’s final days, marked by both physical decline and unwavering dedication to duty.
As the UK continues to grapple with the loss of its longest-reigning monarch, questions about her final days and the extent of her illness are likely to persist. Regardless of the unanswered questions, Queen Elizabeth II’s legacy as a steadfast and devoted leader will undoubtedly endure.
FAQ: Addressing Common Questions About Queen Elizabeth II’s Final Days
Was Queen Elizabeth II diagnosed with bone cancer?
While former Prime Minister Boris Johnson claims in his memoir that the Queen had been battling a “form of bone cancer,” this has not been officially confirmed by Buckingham Palace. The Royal Family maintains a policy of not commenting on speculative reports or personal accounts concerning their health.
What was the official cause of Queen Elizabeth II’s death?
The Queen’s death certificate lists “old age” as the official cause of death. No other contributing factors were officially disclosed.
Did Queen Elizabeth II have any other health concerns?
In the months leading up to her death, Buckingham Palace released limited information about the Queen’s health, citing “episodic mobility problems” as the primary concern. However, no specific details were ever publicly confirmed.
What is the significance of Prince Harry’s recent appearance in London?
Prince Harry’s attendance at the charity event for children battling serious illnesses, while occurring shortly after the release of Johnson’s memoir and in close proximity to Buckingham Palace, has fueled speculation about the state of his relationship with the Royal Family. However, no official statements have been made addressing these speculations.
Will Buckingham Palace comment on the claims made in Boris Johnson’s memoir?
Based on their longstanding policy and past practices, it is highly unlikely that Buckingham Palace will issue a formal statement addressing the specific claims made in Johnson’s memoir.
