King Charles III used his annual Christmas message Wednesday to hail the selflessness of those who have cared for him and the Princess of Wales this year, after both were diagnosed with cancer. The 76-year-old monarch said he and his family are “continually” impressed by those who dedicate their lives to helping others.

King Charles has used his annual TV message to give personal thanks to the medical staff who have cared for him this year. Charles announced his cancer diagnosis in February, the same time as his daughter-in-law Kate shared she was having abdominal surgery.

After a tough year for the royal family, King Charles and Kate Middleton’s health issues were top of mind as the monarch gave his annual Christmas speech on December 25. On Wednesday, Charles departed from 18 years of tradition as he addressed the nation at a former hospital chapel instead of a crown residence–a seeming shout-out to the health care community after he and Kate were diagnosed with cancer earlier this year.