Prince Philip, the late Duke of Edinburgh, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2013, eight years before his passing in 2021. According to a new book by royal author Hugo Vickers, the disease was discovered after a hospital stay, and the diagnosis was described as inoperable.
A Private Struggle with Illness
The book reveals that doctors found a shadow on Prince Philip’s pancreas and performed an operation that involved cutting across his stomach. Despite the grim prognosis, Philip spent time at Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk to recover. He eventually returned to public duties in August 2013, showing resilience in the face of his illness.
A Life Cut Short
Prince Philip passed away in April 2021 at the age of 99, just two months before his 100th birthday. His cause of death was listed as “old age.” Vickers noted that Philip had no desire to reach his 100th birthday, as he disliked the attention that such events would bring.
In his final moments, Philip made a small but defiant gesture. On the last night of his life, he managed to sneak out of his room using his Zimmer frame, grabbed a beer from the Oak Room, and enjoyed it quietly. The next morning, he took a bath, said he did not feel well, and then passed away.
A Long Battle with Cancer
Philip had lived with pancreatic cancer for nearly eight years, which is far longer than the typical survival time after diagnosis. This period of illness was a private struggle, and it was only later that details of his condition became known to the public.
The Queen’s Absence at His Passing
Interestingly, Queen Elizabeth II was not present when Prince Philip died. Vickers highlighted that this was not an unusual occurrence. In the past, the Queen had often asked staff to inform her when Philip was leaving, only to be told that he had already gone.
This absence left the Queen deeply upset. She was “absolutely furious that, as so often in life, [Philip] left without saying goodbye.” The emotional impact of his departure was evident, even though their relationship was one of deep affection and mutual respect.
The End of an Era
Queen Elizabeth II passed away in September 2022 at the age of 96, more than a year after her husband’s death. Her cause of death was also listed as “old age,” and she died at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. King Charles, her eldest son, immediately became the new monarch.
Princess Anne, the Queen’s daughter, was by her side during her final hours. The passing of both Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip marked the end of an era for the British monarchy, with significant changes in the royal family’s structure and public role.
A Legacy of Service and Quiet Strength
Throughout his life, Prince Philip was known for his dedication to public service and his commitment to various charitable causes. Despite his health struggles, he remained active in royal duties until 2017, when he retired from public engagements.
His legacy continues to be remembered, not only for his role as the consort to the longest-reigning monarch in British history but also for his personal strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
Prince Philip Recovered at Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate
Prince Philip Died 2 Months Before His 100th Birthday
Queen Elizabeth Was Not Present With Him When He Died
Queen Elizabeth Died in September 2022
