After falling at Fredensborg Castle, 84-year-old Queen Margrethe of Denmark was forced to cancel a scheduled royal engagement and taken to hospital for observation.
- Sep 20, 2024
AceShowbiz - On September 18, Queen Margrethe of Denmark, age 84, was hospitalized after a fall at Fredensborg Castle, a notable seasonal retreat for the Danish royal family. Despite the incident, which led to her temporary observation at Copenhagen's Rigshospitalet, the former monarch is reported to be doing well. However, her expected appearance at the 75th anniversary of the Department of Archeology at Aarhus University was understandably canceled.
Fredensborg Castle often plays host to the royal family during the summer months. September 19 was to be a significant day for Queen Margrethe, an alumna with a degree in prehistoric archaeology from the University of Cambridge. She has long stated that had she not been queen, she might have delved into a career as an archaeologist. This passion underscores her dedication to various intellectual fields even after her abdication in January.
Indeed, Queen Margrethe made modern history when she stepped down on the 52nd anniversary of her accession, marking a voluntary abdication unseen in Danish sovereignty in nearly 900 years. Her decision surprised many, given past indications that she intended to reign for life. Her abdication elevated her eldest son, King Frederik X, to the throne alongside Queen Mary and saw their four children advance in the line of succession.
In a heartfelt address, Queen Margrethe reflected on the combined honors and physical toll taken by over half a century on the throne. "In two weeks time I have been Queen of Denmark for 52 years. Such an amount will leave its mark on anybody - also on me!" she articulated. The queen's openness about her health, especially her extensive back surgery in February, brought further context to her abdication decision.
"Inevitably, the operation gave cause to thoughts about the future - whether now would be an appropriate time to pass on the responsibility to the next generation," she revealed, emphasizing that her decision was made contemplating the future well-being of both herself and the nation.
Despite reducing her ceremonial duties, Queen Margrethe remained active in her royal roles. She attended the Sclerosis Conference ECTRIMS 2024 in Copenhagen, a cause dear to her heart since becoming a patron of the Sclerosis Association in 1959.
Queen Margrethe's story of resilience and dedication remains inspiring, offering a blend of historical significance and personal strength that resonates across generations.