Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway has been placed on the waiting list for a lung transplant due to her ongoing battle with chronic pulmonary fibrosis, a serious and incurable lung disease. The announcement, made by the Royal House of Norway on June 5, came as concern grows over the Crown Princess’s declining health.
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Mette-Marit first received her diagnosis in October 2018 when the palace revealed that she had been suffering from this life-threatening condition, which leads to the scarring of lung tissue and can significantly impair breathing. Recently, a spokesperson indicated that her health has deteriorated, necessitating the use of a nasal cannula during public appearances to aid in her breathing.
The update from the palace explained that following extensive medical examinations, Mette-Marit has now been added to the list of patients awaiting a suitable donor for a lung transplant. Professor Are Holm, a respiratory specialist at Oslo University Hospital, emphasised the severity of the Crown Princess’s condition. He confirmed that a comprehensive assessment had occurred, and her health status warranted immediate attention.
As a result of her health challenges, Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s ability to fulfil royal duties has been considerably affected. The court stated that she would be unable to engage in her normal activities while awaiting surgery. Additionally, there will be implications for the royal family’s schedule, including her husband, Crown Prince Haakon, their daughter Princess Ingrid Alexandra, and son Prince Sverre Magnus.
The Crown Princess’s deteriorating health has led to significant family adjustments. The couple has postponed their silver wedding anniversary celebrations, which were originally set to take place in August. Further, she has also cancelled an upcoming official visit scheduled for September.
In light of recent developments, Crown Prince Haakon plans to modify his royal duties to provide support and remain close to the Crown Princess during this challenging period. The court announced that he would limit long-distance travel both within Norway and internationally until after Mette-Marit’s operation. This includes forgoing his attendance at the 50th wedding anniversary celebration of the Swedish King and Queen, which had been scheduled for 13 June.
Their daughter, Princess Ingrid Alexandra, has also made the decision to temporarily transfer her studies from Australia back to Norway. She will spend the autumn semester at the University of Oslo in an effort to support her family during this difficult time. Meanwhile, her brother, Prince Sverre Magnus, intends to embark on studies in Europe this autumn but plans to return to Norway as needed.
Crown Princess Mette-Marit is also the mother of Marius Borg Høiby, 29, from a previous relationship. This year, Marius has faced legal challenges, having been charged with multiple offences, including serious allegations of rape, which he has denied. A verdict is anticipated on June 15.
Public concern has grown for Crown Princess Mette-Marit, especially following her recent appearances. On June 4, she was seen at a hospital in Oslo accompanied by Crown Prince Haakon and Princess Ingrid Alexandra. Photographs captured her wearing a backpack containing her oxygen device, highlighting the impact of her condition on daily life.
As the Crown Princess and her family navigate this trying period, the support of the Norwegian people remains strong. The royal family is a focal point of national pride, and such health concerns resonate deeply with many in the country. Whether through a forthcoming lung transplant or ongoing medical treatment, the hope is that Crown Princess Mette-Marit can find relief from her illness and gradually resume her vital role in Norwegian public life.