It's been nearly seven months since King Charles' cancer diagnosis was made public, and although the updates shared by the palace have been positive so far, it sounds like officials may not have been telling the whole truth. According to a new report, plans for Charles' funeral are well underway, and those in the know are aware that "death is a possibility" for the king — even though he seems to be back to a more normal level of appearances and royal engagements these days.
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The palace is reportedly working on Charles' funeral plans.
According to what a royal insider told In Touch Weekly, Charles' cancer journey has been difficult enough that palace officials are already making plans so they're prepared if the unthinkable happens.
"The business of planning his funeral has already begun, unpleasant as it seems," the palace shared.
The reality of Charles' health may not match what's actually happening behind closed doors.
Though Charles has been out and about, meeting with the public and fulfilling royal duties, the source claims that it hasn't been as easy for him as the palace might make it look.
"He’s making public appearances, but they’re for shorter periods of time," the source said. "He’s often whisked in by helicopter and then whisked out. After an engagement, he needs a good rest."
At this point, it seems like practicality wins out.
After all, this is the British monarchy we're talking about.
"The palace is giving the impression that Charles is on the mend, but he’s still very sick. Still, he’s the king and palace officials are practical enough to know death is a possibility," the source added.
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The plan for Charles' death is called Operation Menai Bridge.
Each member of the royal family has a separate code name for the protocol that follows that person's death. For the late Queen Elizabeth, it was Operation London Bridge, and for King Charles, it's Operation Menai Bridge. Royal funerals are always planned to some extent in case of emergency, and the palace confirmed to In Touch that "bridge plans are always updated on an ongoing basis as a matter of routine."
Still, it appears there might be more going on behind the scenes than that if the magazine's source is to be believed.
"Officials will make sure a funeral for the king meets his wishes and expectations while following proper protocol. Charles at least can find some peace in that," the source said.
In the meantime, it seems as if Charles is making his own kind of plans.
The royal insider claims that involves preparing Prince William to become king.
The person added, "William has taken on a bigger role and Charles has drawn him in on much of the decision-making."
Even at 75 years old, this can't be easy for Charles and his family, especially so soon after he took the throne.
