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King Charles' first year as monarch has undoubtedly been challenging in many unexpected ways. While he has faced immense pressures adjusting to his new role, there have also been some positive moments that have heartened his most ardent supporters. Recently, the palace quietly announced that the honorary position of Commodore at the Royal Navy Sailing Club, which Charles held for 12 years as Prince of Wales, would remain unfilled. This fueled hopes that the position may soon be offered to the Princess of Wales when her battle with cancer is behind her.
While Catherine is not officially back to royal duties following her chemotherapy treatment, she has quietly held a meeting about planning her annual Christmas carol service. This indicates she is making progress in her recovery. People have expressed relief and joy that the King plans to remain Patron of the sailing club, knowing the pressures of supporting the slimmed down monarchy. Of course, strong royal ties offer no guarantees against difficult times, as seen in 1986 when Prince Andrew succeeded his elder brother Charles as Commodore, only to step down in disgrace in 2021 amid his own scandal.
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Since Andrew's departure, the club has yearned for Catherine to take his place. As revealed last year, Catherine is a very capable sailor according to Olympic gold medalists like Ben Ainslie, after she joined the British sailing team for a race in Plymouth Sound in 2022. A friend of the Princess notes decisions about her future patronages are currently on hold pending approval from her doctors to return to public life. She would make a great role model in the position. Royal protocol dictates the royal family must initiate such appointments, but Charles and Catherine have built a unique bond over the years and the Princess is seen as a secret weapon for the monarchy.
Charles is said to absolutely adore Catherine, lighting up whenever he sees her. According to one author, their closeness was most evident during difficult times in Charles' relationship with Prince William, when Catherine served as an arbiter between the two. The future Queen has consistently shown loyalty and commitment to the crown and her in-laws. To formally recognize her contributions, Charles will appoint Catherine as a member of his Privy Council upon her full recovery. This prestigious position would allow her to attend the Accession Council upon William's ascension, and be present in the room at St. James' Place when he officially becomes king.
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Charles has already bestowed a promotion upon Catherine within the Royal Victorian Order last year, thanking her for her exemplary service. But Privy Council membership would further cement her role alongside the monarch. Her closeness with Charles was on full display at the recent Trooping the Colour, Catherine's first public engagement in 6 months following her cancer diagnosis. It was clear she wanted to be there to support her family during this milestone event. The Prince and Princess of Wales currently split their time between Kensington Palace in London and Anmer Hall in Norfolk.
Despite strong arguments for relocating, Prince Andrew remains resistant to vacating his home at Royal Lodge. Giving up Royal Lodge would mean losing not only his residence, but also the challenge of securing suitable alternative living arrangements befitting his status. King Charles' insistence on the move is part of a broader modernization strategy, positioning the Wales family at Royal Lodge to reinforce their status as the future monarch and queen consort. It also provides a supportive environment for Catherine's recovery from ill health. While change can be difficult, Andrew will need to accept vacating the property to assist the monarchy's transition under its new King.
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Overall, King Charles' first year on the throne has undoubtedly brought unforeseen challenges as he adjusts to his role. However, there have also been hopeful moments as he relies on the support of those close to him, including his daughter-in-law Catherine. Her dedication to service and role as a mediator makes her uniquely positioned to assist both the King and the future king William as the monarchy continues to modernize. With patience and commitment to duty, the family will navigate these changes together.
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