Robin Roberts has been an image of strength since her cancer diagnosis in 2007 and she shows no signs of weariness despite being diagnosed with a new illness. On Wednesday, Roberts appeared on Good Morning America wearing a plum armband, which was later identified as a chemotherapy treatment armband for myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), a blood and marrow disorder that was once considered a precursor of leukemia. Her co-hosts also showed their support by getting swabbed to see if they were matches for anyone awaiting a bone marrow transplant. Luckily, Roberts already has a donor, her sister Sally-Ann Roberts, who is a perfect match.
The veteran journalist spoke of her illness on the show earlier this month and shared her plans to beat MDS. “It is something that is called MDS. It is a rare blood disorder that affects the bone marrow,” she said. “I’m going to beat this. My doctors say it and my faith says it.”
According to Roberts, she was diagnosed on a very important day. Still, that did not deter her. “The combination of landing the biggest interview of my career and having a drill in my back reminds me that God only gives us what we can handle and that it helps to have a good sense of humor when we run smack into the absurdity of life,” wrote Roberts on her blog.
