Charles may be just two years into his reign, but he's been able to forge a deep and personal connection with the public as he spearheads a new era of monarchy.

The King has ushered in a new era of openness while subtly introducing a flexible approach to the centuries-old role of head of state.

Right from the start, the King decided to share his cancer diagnosis with the public in a bid to reach out to those in similar situations.

He wanted to use his diagnosis for good, and chose not to reveal the type of cancer he has to reach the widest number of people.

This has enabled him to connect with cancer patients and their families during royal visits, creating a sense of camaraderie with him and people suffering the same gruelling disease - in a way that wouldn't have been achieved if he had disclosed the exact type of cancer he had.

Charles may choose to reveal his diagnosis in time, but for now, it's enabled him to reach the widest number of people.

The monarch has sought to bring discussions of cancer out into the open, attending engagements that involved meeting patients and families living with cancer, as well as academics and researchers of the disease.

It is no surprise then that he chose to reflect on his experiences in his annual address, discussing the "uncertainties and anxieties" that illness brings.

His message marked a further sign of the King letting the public in in a way not seen under his late mother's reign.

The King's decision to move the Christmas message away from the rigid traditions of recording it at a grand royal estate also reflects a more responsive monarchy.

Instead of standing in a lavishly decorated drawing room, Charles opted for a former hospital chapel.

It marks the third venue for his address, having recorded his first at Windsor Castle and last year's at Buckingham Palace.

Charles is making a statement and showing the public that he is willing to be more flexible and adapt to what Britain wants from its head of state.

His transparency about his cancer has also helped strengthen the monarchy in a year that could have so easily been sidetracked by the challenges cancer brings.