Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit will likely need a lung transplant as her health has worsened in recent months, the country's royal household has confirmed.
The princess, 52, was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in 2018. This degenerative disease leads to scar tissue forming in the lungs, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to breathe and receive adequate oxygen into their bloodstream.
Recent tests have shown a clear worsening of her health condition. Are Martin Holm, head of respiratory medicine at Oslo University Hospital, stated, We are reaching the point where a lung transplant will be necessary. Mette-Marit herself noted that her illness has developed faster than I'd hoped.
While a formal decision regarding her placement on the transplant waiting list has not yet been made, Dr. Holm indicated that preparations toward an evaluation for lung transplantation are underway.
In Norway, a typical lung transplant waiting list consists of around 20 to 40 patients, and reports suggest that the Crown Princess would not receive preferential treatment if added to this list. Nonetheless, her medical team is ensuring that all needed preparations are being handled to facilitate a transplant when the appropriate time arrives.
As her condition necessitates an increasing need for rest and a tailored exercise regimen, the palace has indicated that her royal duties will be adjusted according to her ongoing health issues. Mette-Marit has expressed a strong desire to continue fulfilling her obligations despite her challenges.
Dr. Holm provided insight into pulmonary fibrosis, describing it as a dangerous disease that may not be visibly apparent, depending significantly on how unwell the individual feels. Physical exertion could exacerbate breathing difficulties.
In a recent interview, Crown Prince Haakon highlighted the princess's struggles, noting that while she may appear fine when sitting still, he has observed her struggles with breathing. Consequently, familiar activities such as hiking and skiing have become increasingly challenging for the couple.
Amidst health concerns, the royal household faces additional stress as the announcement of the princess's illness comes months after her eldest son was involved in legal troubles with serious accusations against him. Marius Borg Høiby, the stepson of the heir to the Norwegian throne, has denied the most severe allegations but intends to plead guilty to lesser charges.
