The News
Who is Dr. Michael Dixon?
The Physician Behind King Charles's Cancer Care
King Charles has been navigating a challenging year after his cancer diagnosis in February.
During this period, he has relied heavily on his medical team, particularly Dr. Michael Dixon, who oversees his treatment.
Despite the health concerns, the 75-year-old monarch took a brief break to embark on a 10-day royal tour of Australia and Samoa in October, returning to the UK to continue his care.
Remarkably, he has maintained a positive demeanor while attending various royal engagements.
Dr. Michael Dixon, aged 72, was appointed as the head of the royal medical household in late 2022.
His relationship with the King appears to be warm and supportive.
This summer, he received the title of Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO), a prestigious honor awarded by King Charles for his dedicated service.
However, Dr. Dixon's unconventional views on homeopathy have sparked controversy, raising eyebrows among some members of the public.
Homeopathy, which involves administering highly diluted substances that mimic illness symptoms to stimulate natural healing, is a practice Dr. Dixon strongly advocates.
Based in Devon, he also promotes complementary medicines, which have faced skepticism despite royal endorsement.
In a speech at the Integrated Health Convention in 2022, he expressed his belief in a diverse toolkit of treatments, including acupressure, massage, and various dietary approaches, claiming these methods have significantly improved patient outcomes.
While not everyone may agree with Dr. Dixon's alternative methods, King Charles remains a staunch supporter.
The King has often praised Dr. Dixon, reflecting on their long-standing relationship and the physician's contributions to his health.
He once remarked on the depth of admiration he holds for Dr. Dixon's achievements throughout the years, underscoring the trust he places in him.
When Buckingham Palace announced Dr. Dixon's appointment, it came just before the King's cancer diagnosis.
The palace defended his treatment philosophy, clarifying that Dr. Dixon does not believe homeopathy can cure cancer but sees value in complementary therapies alongside conventional treatments—provided they are safe and evidence-based.
King Charles has long been an advocate for integrated health, emphasizing that complementary medicine should not replace conventional care.
In other royal news, King Charles and Queen Camilla are gearing up for an exciting appearance at the 97th Royal Variety Performance on November 22.
This event, hosted at the iconic Royal Albert Hall, promises to be a highlight of the British winter calendar.
Their confirmed attendance reaffirms their commitment to the entertainment industry and charitable causes, showcasing their roles as key patrons of the arts.
However, there's a bit of intrigue surrounding the potential attendance of Prince William and Princess Kate, which remains uncertain.
King Charles's appearance will mark his debut as the new patron of the Royal Variety Charity, a role he steps into with extensive experience, having attended the event numerous times since 1968.
The Royal Variety Performance holds a special place in British culture, celebrated as the world's longest-running entertainment show.
It not only provides a night of exceptional performances but also serves a greater charitable mission, supporting members of the entertainment industry through its grants program.
This year, the charity has placed a renewed focus on mental health support, addressing a growing concern within the sector.
Giles Cooper, chairman of the Royal Variety Charity, has highlighted the importance of this emphasis, acknowledging the unique mental health challenges faced by those in the entertainment field.
The charity's commitment to providing assistance for issues such as depression and anxiety reflects a broader awareness of the pressures that industry professionals encounter.
The longstanding relationship between the British Royal Family and the Royal Variety Performance dates back to its inception in 1912.
With King Charles stepping into the role of patron, he reinforces a tradition that celebrates British entertainment while offering support to those behind the scenes.
This year's performance will not only showcase top-tier talent but also shine a light on the invaluable work of the Royal Variety Charity.
Before the Royal Variety Performance, King Charles and Queen Camilla have another significant engagement lined up—the global premiere of Gladiator 2 on November 13.
Their participation in high-profile events illustrates their active role in modern British culture and their ongoing support for the arts.
As the Royal Variety Performance approaches, excitement builds around this star-studded event, which is set against the grand backdrop of the Royal Albert Hall.
The presence of King Charles and Queen Camilla adds a fresh chapter to this storied occasion, highlighting their commitment to supporting Britain's creative industries and charitable endeavors.