Royal Watch News

Duchess of Cornwall wants to highlight osteoporosis

Nov 7, 2012, 12:02 GMT

The Duchess of Cornwall

Britain's Duchess of Cornwall spoke of her mother's death from osteoporosis as she highlighted a cause which is very close to her heart.

Camilla is currently on a Diamond Jubilee tour of Australia with husband Prince Charles and said she was determined to bring attention to the crippling bone disease during her trip as she knows how much pain it can bring.

Speaking at an Osteoporosis Australia function in Melbourne, Camilla - who is president of Britain's National Osteoporosis Society - said: 'I watched my mother die in agony from this disease. I was determined, when I came to Australia, that I was going to get an osteoporosis reception and I have.'

Camilla took time to speak to guests and they said she was very understanding and supportive.

Beryl Logie, president of the Melbourne osteoporosis support group, explained: 'I said we have a lot in common. I know what it's like to watch your mother suffer from fractures and you can't do a thing about it. She was very understanding.'

Charles and Camilla began the Australian leg of their tour in the remote Outback town of Longreach on Monday (05.11.12), following a successful visit to Papua New Guinea.

They are due to take in Hobart, Sydney and Canberra before leaving for New Zealand on Saturday (10.11.12).