Princess Kate set to go ahead with one of highest profile appearances after a 'brutal year'

The Princess of Wales is set to host her much-anticipated annual Christmas carol concert, which this year will focus on the theme of unity and support during life's toughest challenges. Kate, at 42, is currently recovering from cancer following what the Prince of Wales has termed a "brutal" year.

Despite her health battles, she is keen for the event to proceed on December 6 at Westminster Abbey, with the broadcast scheduled for Christmas Eve. This marks the fourth occasion that the Princess has organised the Together At Christmas Service, an event that has quickly become a staple in the Royal festive schedule.

Last year's concert saw a surprise performance by Kate playing the piano with Tom Walker, and it was also the first time Prince Louis attended alongside his siblings. The service represents one of the select few engagements as Kate gradually resumes public duties after completing chemotherapy in the summer.

READ MORE: Kate Middleton's 'tower of strength' in Royal Family who has been by her side this year

Kensington Palace highlighted that Kate wishes to use the service to honour those who offer support to people in need, emphasising the significance of love and empathy. Kensington Palace stated: "This year's service provides a moment to reflect upon the importance of love and empathy, and how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives."

"The service will shine a light on individuals from all over the UK who have shown love, kindness and empathy towards others in their communities" the Palace stated.

"This year, Her Royal Highness wanted to celebrate the many people supporting those in need - individuals who have inspired, counselled, comforted, and above all else shown that love is the greatest gift we can receive."

"This theme takes inspiration from the Christmas story which encourages us to consider the experiences of others and the important human need of giving and receiving empathy."

On her recent Royal engagements, the message of "love and empathy" was evident as she and the Royal Family offered mutual support, reports the Mirror.

At the Royal British Legion's Festival of Remembrance, Prince William was seen with his arm around his smiling wife upon arrival, engaging in conversation as they sat. The King, whose spouse has been ill but is improving, was accompanied by his sister, Princess Anne, at the Royal Albert Hall event.

Then, on Remembrance Sunday, Kate stood with Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, observing King Charles and Prince William during the wreath-laying ceremony at the Cenotaph. Sophie also exhibited a comforting demeanour towards the younger mother-of-two.

Kate's 'Together At Christmas' carol service, backed by The Royal Foundation, will be televised, providing a heart-warming special on ITV1 and ITVX.

The Royal family is set to unite alongside the princess as London's abbey fills with around 1,600 attendees eager to witness performances from luminaries such as Paloma Faith, Olivia Dean, and Gregory Porter. Guests, including those who have selflessly supported others—either personally or through charitable, work or volunteer efforts—were chosen by charities linked to the royals and by Lord Lieutenants across the UK.

The Middleton's, who reportedly have been especially supportive to Kate during her illness, typically make an appearance. The event's decorations will draw from natural inspirations and meld traditional and contemporary elements, catering to individuals of all faiths and none.

Moreover, there are 15 Together At Christmas community carol services happening nationwide, with events at places like the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro and Blackpool Tower Circus.

The Queen stepped out on Tuesday for a Booker Prize engagement, marking her first public outing since being side-lined by a chest infection. During the affair, she confided to Booker Prize Foundation chief executive Gaby Wood, saying, "I'm obviously getting much better. A bit of sort of coughing going on. I really wanted to come."

This marks her return to the public eye after falling ill due to a seasonal ailment following her extensive tour to Australia and Samoa over two weeks prior.

Her Majesty conversed with the six shortlisted authors and remarked to Percival Everett, "I think I'm on the mend, but these things always take a bit of time to get rid of. You think you've got rid of it, then they just sort of hang on for a little bit, but hopefully I'm on the mend now."