King Charles III is speaking out for the first time since his cancer diagnosis, and he sincerely thanks everyone for their support.

Buckingham Palace shared a statement on behalf of His Majesty on Saturday, saying: “Such kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement.” The palace announced on February 5 that Charles had been diagnosed with cancer. That diagnosis came not long after he underwent a procedure for an enlarged prostate.

“As anyone affected by cancer will know, such kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement,” the statement began. “It is equally encouraging to hear how sharing my own diagnosis has helped to promote public understanding and shine a light on the work of all those organizations supporting cancer patients and their families in the UK and the support the rest of the world.”

He added: “My lifelong admiration for their tireless care and dedication is all the greater as a result of my own personal experience.”

The statement comes just days later Queen Camille offered an update on her first royal appearance since her husband’s cancer diagnosis was announced this month.

Camilla shared during a benefit concert at Salisbury Cathedral on Thursday that Charles is doing “extremely well under the circumstances”. She added that Charles has been “very touched by all the letters and messages the public have sent from all over”. She also said he found them “very cheerful.”

“During the King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, another area of ​​concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests identified a form of cancer,” read a palace statement announcing the cancer diagnosis. “His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public duties. During this period, His Majesty will continue to conduct state business and official paperwork as usual.”