Queen Camilla did not join several other senior royals as they attended the Duchess of Kent’s funeral at Westminster Cathedral on Sept. 16.
When King Charles’ wife pulled out of the service at the last minute, many wondered why. To ease concerns from the public and end any speculation, Buckingham Palace issued a statement regarding the queen’s absence.
The statement read: “With great regret, Her Majesty the Queen has withdrawn from attendance at this afternoon’s Requiem Mass for the Duchess of Kent as she is recovering from acute sinusitis. Her thoughts and prayers will be with the Duke of Kent and all the family.”
According to Express, the duchess’s husband, the Duke of Kent, was informed that the queen had fallen ill and couldn’t make it. He is said to fully understand and sent his best wishes for her speedy recovery.
Queen Camilla’s choice to skip the service threw some doubt into whether she would be able to attend the engagements related to U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump’s state visit. However, the Palace stressed that she is recovering at Windsor and hopes she will be able to do so.