Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit has been placed on a waiting list for a lung transplant, following what the royal household described as a serious and life-threatening chronic lung condition. The 52-year-old royal, married to Crown Prince Haakon, has been battling pulmonary fibrosis since her diagnosis in 2018.
Medical Assessment and Waiting List
According to a statement from the Norwegian royal household, the worsening condition means the princess will temporarily step away from official duties while awaiting a suitable donor. Consultant lung specialist Are Holm said, “The progression of The Crown Princess’s lung disease is serious. Following a comprehensive medical assessment, she has now been placed on the waiting list for patients who will undergo a lung transplant as soon as a suitable donor becomes available.”
Family Adjustments
The palace confirmed that Crown Prince Haakon will adjust his schedule to spend more time with his wife during the treatment and recovery process. The situation has also led to changes in family plans. The couple have postponed celebrations marking their silver wedding anniversary, while the princess has withdrawn from a planned nationwide tour later this year.
Their daughter, Princess Ingrid Alexandra, has returned from Australia and will continue her studies in Oslo. Prince Sverre Magnus is expected to return home whenever necessary as the family navigates the health situation.
Background on the Crown Princess
Mette-Marit became Crown Princess after marrying Haakon in 2001, following their meeting at a music festival two years earlier. Their wedding attracted widespread international attention and was watched by millions.
