Queen Sonja of Norway was rushed to a nearby hospital following a ski-related accident over the weekend.
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According to the Sweden Herald, the incident occurred when the 87 experienced a flare-up of her already-diagnosed heart condition, atrial fibrillation, while she was skiing. She was transported to Lillehammer Hospital.
The Norweigan royal court confirmed in a statement that Queen Sonja was discharged and recovering following the accident.
Per the Cleveland Clinic, atrial fibrillation is an irregular irregular heart rhythm that begins in the heart’s upper chambers (atria). It is one of the most common arrhythmias and, if left untreated, can lead to a stroke.
Meanwhile, royal expert Trond Norén Isaksen said the queen’s hospitalization was surprising since he believed the royal had not previously had any major health concerns.
Norweigan Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre also wrote a statement wishing the queen a speedy recovery. He further “hopes that she will soon be ready for new skiing trips.”
Queen Sonja was on duty days before the ski-related accident. Her husband, King Harald, was previously on sick leave for nearly two months after experiencing heart issues while on vacation in Malaysia. His physicians determined he had a low heart rate. He then had a pacemaker implanted.
Despite his health woes over the past year, King Harald has no plans to abdicate his throne. However, the 87-year-old royal did declare that he would scale back his official duties, mainly due to his age.
King Harald and Queen Sonja have been seated on the throne since 1991. Married in 1968, the couple shares children Princess Märtha Louise and Crown Prince Haakon.
King Harald Recently Declared His Family Is ‘Not For Sale’ After Princess Martha Louise Made a Photo Deal With Hello! Magazine
Last month, King Harald clarified that his royal family is “not for sale” after his daughter, Princess Martha Louise, signed a deal with Hello! magazine over photos of her marriage to Durek Verrett.
The couple married in 2024
Royal Central reported that the Norwegian royals would not be involved in any wedding photos. However, they decided to appear publicly on their way to the event and pose for the press. They also shared an official photo of them in traditional dress.
Speaking out about the situation, King Harald said the deal was important. He also noted that discussions with the princes about her title are ongoing.
Regarding the wedding, King Harald noted that the event was fun. He and Queen Sonja were happy to see members of the royal family for the celebration.