Removing soffits in the kitchen

How hard is it to remove 12 inch soffits in a kitchen? Also, is it feasible to think we can do it ourselves as well as removing the cabinets?

Removing the soffits is really not very difficult.  Depending on the age of the house, they are most likely built out of 2 x 4" s covered with drywall.  Sometimes they covered the framing with plywood prior to installing the drywall.  You may encounter wiring, pipes or ducts in the soffits.  If so, these will have to be relocated either in the wall or ceiling.  Removing a section of the drywall in the front would allow you to poke your head inside for a better look.