Prince William spoke publicly for the first time since the news of King Charles' cancer diagnosis

It's been a difficult start to 2024 for the royal family. And for the first time since King Charles was diagnosed with cancer, Prince William was not only on royal duty, but he also had a chance to speak publicly.

On February 7, the Prince of Wales attended a charity dinner gala for the Air Ambulance of London. It was a chance to mix and mingle with a number of high profile individuals, while also raising money for the London Air Ambulance Service. And since the prince had to give a speech at the event, it makes sense that he would take the time to address the ongoing health issues that have been impacting the royal family since the beginning of the new year.

According to Sky News, while speaking on stage at the gala dinner, Prince William took a moment to address the crowd with his appreciation for the kindness that he and his family have received in relation to both his wife and his father.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to say thank you, also, for the kind messages of support for Catherine and for my father, especially in recent days. It means a great deal to us all. It's fair to say the past few weeks have had a rather medical focus."

- Prince William

Prince William took a moment to speak out about the family's appreciation for the support they have received while speaking at a fundraising gala

During his speech the prince also made a joke about having to attend the Air Ambulance gala in order to get away from it all.

It comes as no surprise to see Prince William attending this particular gala as he was once an air ambulance pilot himself, although not for London. It makes sense that he would want to support the cause, even amidst the current royal turmoil. In fact, his attendance is likely the first chance he has had to really step away from everything that has been happening medically within his family.

During the event he was seen laughing with Tom Cruise and even making a few jokes with the other man. The prince chatted with people both outside of the gala and inside. He may have been on duty as a working royal at the event, but it also seemed like this was a welcome reprieve for the prince.

This was the second event of the day for the prince, who also took part in an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle in the place of the king. Overall, it was a busy day for Prince William.