Crown Princess undergoes 'successful' lung transplant, Palace confirms

Crown Princess of Norway Mette-Marit has undergone a successful lung transplant at University Hospital Rikshospitalet in Oslo, the palace announced on Wednesday.

Mette-Marit, who suffers from a rare form of pulmonary fibrosis that causes breathing difficulties, has undergone a "successful" lung transplant, according to the statement issued by the palace.

"We are delighted that everything has progressed well so far. In accordance with standard practice for all recent transplant recipients, Her Royal Highness the Crown Princess will remain admitted to Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet for several weeks to come," Are Holm, lung specialist at the hospital, said in the palace statement.

Mette-Marit, 52, was diagnosed with the illness, which causes scarring of the lungs, in 2018.

Her condition had deteriorated significantly over the past six months and her doctors announced on June 5 that she had been placed on the waiting list for a lung transplant.

Doctors said the procedure was a last resort when a patient is believed to have less than two years to live without new lungs.

“His Royal Highness Crown Prince Haakon will adjust his official program in order to support the Crown Princess during this period,” it said and added “The next update regarding Her Royal Highness's health will be issued upon her discharge from Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet.”

Meanwhile, the Crown Prince and the Crown Princess have expressed their sincere gratitude for the many warm and kind messages they have received.