Hoda Kotb never imagined she would be diagnosed with breast cancer. 

The beloved television personality, who recently retired from the Today show, 

reflected on her experience during an appearance at the Runway for Recovery event on February 27, 2025. 

The event, which honors breast cancer survivors and those affected by the disease, served as a poignant moment for Kotb to share her journey nearly two decades after her diagnosis.

The 60-year-old journalist was diagnosed with breast cancer 18 years ago after discovering a lump. In March 2007, she underwent a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. 

Since then, she has remained cancer-free but still vividly remembers the shock and disbelief she felt upon hearing the diagnosis.

“There are people who are going to get breast cancer. I didn’t think I was one,” Kotb admitted. “I mean, I ate apples and ran in Central Park. I was like, me? When they called me, they were like, ‘Oh, it’s you.’ I go, ‘It can’t be me. Why would it be me?’ I’ve never done any of the things that would lead to this diagnosis, but yet it came.”

Despite the initial shock, Kotb emphasized the importance of staying calm when faced with such a diagnosis. She advised others to take their time, find a doctor they trust, and allow themselves to go through the process without rushing.

“One of the most important things to do is take a deep breath and slow down,” she explained. “When it comes to breast cancer, it’s sort of like, get it early, get it out, and try not to be defined by it.”

For Kotb, surviving cancer was a life-altering experience, but she refused to let it define her. Instead, she chose to embrace the ways it changed her.

“It can shape you, but if it defines you, then you will spend your life feeling a certain way,” she said. “So it’s like understanding this is part of me, but not all of me. It’s going to change me, and I’ll be different now.”

Kotb believes that her journey has made her stronger and more resilient, a sentiment she hopes others can find comfort in.

“But what you’ll find is you’re braver, you’re more resilient,” she added.

Her appearance at the Runway for Recovery event was deeply meaningful. The annual fashion show, founded by Olivia Boger, featured over 65 participants, including men, women, and children who have been impacted by metastatic breast cancer. Kotb was honored to be part of the event and praised its mission of celebrating those who have fought the disease, those still battling it, and those who have lost their lives to it.

“What I love the most about this whole event is the people who are walking the runways have been through it,” Kotb shared. “This is not like models walking on the red carpet. These are people who’ve been through it, and what they’re doing is they’re showing you, they’re not telling you. They’re showing you, this is where I am now.”

Runway for Recovery has raised over $10.2 million since its inception, with the February 27 event alone bringing in $456,000. The nonprofit’s impact extends beyond financial contributions, as it fosters a sense of empowerment and strength among breast cancer survivors and their families.

During the event, Kotb reflected on a question that had once haunted her in the wake of her diagnosis: “When I had breast cancer, I remember thinking to myself, will I ever feel pretty in an outfit? Will I ever feel comfortable? How will I look?”

Seeing the participants walk the runway with confidence and grace was a powerful reminder that beauty and strength come from within.

“I’m watching what’s happening here today, and it’s extraordinary,” she said. “It’s important.”

Kotb’s message of resilience and hope continues to inspire those facing similar challenges. Her journey is a testament to the power of positivity, perseverance, and the importance of support from loved ones and the community. As she moves forward in this new chapter of her life, her story remains an encouragement for others navigating their own battles with cancer.

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