Kate Middleton makes rare comment on her 'challenging' cancer battle at emotional Christmas carol service

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM: Kate Middleton gave a glimpse into her cancer battle while hosting the fourth annual "Together at Christmas" carol service at Westminster Abbey on Friday, December 6. 

The Princess of Wales reflected on the unanticipated challenges of the past year and shared her hopes for the future.

Kate Middleton opens up about the 'challenging times' of this year at annual carol service

In a video shared on X (formerly Twitter) from the event, Kate Middleton said, "I didn’t know this year was going to be the year that I’ve just had."

Her sentiments were met with an empathetic response from performer Paloma Faith, who acknowledged, "The unplanned." The Princess of Wales repeated the phrase, adding, "The unplanned, exactly. But I think lots of people this year have had such challenging times."

The mother of three, who revealed her cancer diagnosis in March, has slowly been stepping back into public life after months of focusing on her health and family.

In September, Kate shared an emotional update on her cancer battle.

She revealed, "As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment. The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family."

Kate also described the whirlwind of emotions and adjustments her diagnosis brought into their lives.

"Life as you know it can change in an instant, and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown," she explained.

Kate Middleton is focusing on doing what can be done to 'stay cancer-free'

Kate Middleton further shared, "The cancer journey is complex, scary and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you. With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerabilities in a way you have never considered before, and with that, a new perspective on everything." 

"This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted. Of simply loving and being loved," she said, adding, "Doing what I can to stay cancer-free is now my focus."

Kate Middleton has got a 'renewed sense of hope and appreciation for life'

While she has completed chemotherapy, Kate Middleton acknowledged the road ahead remains uncertain.

"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," she shared.

Despite these challenges, the princess remains optimistic about her future, as she further said, "I am however looking forward to being back at work and undertaking a few more public engagements in the coming months when I can." 

As Kate gradually reclaims her role, she continues to use her platform to raise awareness and advocate for those navigating their own health battles.

"Despite all that has gone before, I enter this new phase of recovery with a renewed sense of hope and appreciation of life. William and I are so grateful for the support we have received and have drawn great strength from all those who are helping us at this time," she shared.

Her message concluded on an uplifting note, with words of solidarity for others facing similar struggles.

The mother of three said, "Everyone’s kindness, empathy and compassion has been truly humbling. To all those who are continuing their own cancer journey – I remain with you, side by side, hand in hand. Out of darkness, can come light, so let that light shine bright." 

The "Together at Christmas" carol service marked Kate's first major public outing since returning to her royal duties earlier this week to welcome the Emir of Qatar to the UK.