The Princess of Wales spoke candidly about her year, which included receiving a cancer diagnosis, during her annual Christmas carol service.

Following abdominal surgery in January, that while the surgery had been successful, “tests after the operation found cancer had been present.” She began a course of chemotherapy in February and subsequently bowed out of most of her ordinary schedule in 2024.

She has, however, done a handful of royal engagements—beginning in June with and most recently on Friday at her “Together at Christmas” carol service in London at Westminster Abbey.

During a meet and greet at the event, Kate discussed her health problems, opening up about her unexpected retreat from royal life.

“I didn’t know that this year was going to be the year that I just had,” the princess said, adding, “But I think lots of people this year have had such challenging times—many who are here today.”

“Some of the stories—not only people supporting those in need but also some of those who have really struggled this year,” Kate continued.

Footage of the , in which her voice appeared to falter briefly, has gone viral on , receiving more than 250,000 views and 11,000 likes.

Viewers also left hundreds of comments, with one writing, “So genuine—you just know this was her letting down her guard.”

Another added: “So humble, genuine and lovely! May God continue to bless her in good health, love and joy!”

The service was Kate’s most high-profile appearance this year in which she was the star of the event rather than a supporting character. Her husband, , and children—, and —also attended.

Kate’s was held on December 8. Just over a month later, Kensington Palace announced that she had been admitted to the hospital for planned abdominal surgery.

A said: “Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales was admitted to The London Clinic yesterday for planned abdominal surgery.

“The surgery was successful and it is expected that she will remain in hospital for ten to fourteen days, before returning home to continue her recovery. Based on the current medical advice, she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter.”

In March, Kate announced her cancer diagnosis, which came to shape her entire year. Though she is still not back to work full time, her appearances have increased in the final months of 2024.

In September, the princess : “Although I have finished chemotherapy, my path to healing and full recovery is long, and I must continue to take each day as it comes.

“I am, however, looking forward to being back at work and undertaking a few more public engagements in the coming months when I can.

“Despite all that has gone before, I enter this new phase of recovery with a renewed sense of hope and appreciation of life.”

Williams Brown is chief royal correspondent for Regalrumination.com, based in London. You can find him on X, formerly , at and read his stories on Regalrumination.com‘s

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