Katie Thurston, former star of The Bachelorette, has revealed that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer. The 34-year-old reality TV star shared the emotional news on Instagram, expressing her determination to fight the disease.
Katie’s Heartfelt Announcement
On February 15, Thurston posted a candid life update, sharing two photos of herself smiling along with a deeply personal message.
“Life update: I have breast cancer,” she began.
The Bachelorette alum opened up about the whirlwind of emotions she experienced after her diagnosis.
“I felt despair. Anger. Sadness. Denial. And then strength. Purposeful. Ready,” she wrote.
She revealed that instead of celebrating Valentine’s Day with her fiancé, comedian Jeff Arcuri, she spent the day coordinating her medical care, dealing with insurance and preparing for chemotherapy, surgery, and fertility treatments.
A Tough Journey Ahead
Thurston was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma, a common type of breast cancer, just two weeks before her post. As she processed the news, she turned to other women’s stories for strength.
“One thing I did early on was search for other stories like mine … All of their stories helped. So I intend to be the same for others,” she wrote.
Despite the difficult road ahead, Thurston remains hopeful and determined, calling this “Day One” of her cancer battle.
Gratitude for Her Fiancé’s Support
Thurston ended her post with a touching tribute to Jeff Arcuri, calling him her “extraordinary husband-to-be.”
“I don’t know how I’d do this without you. The selfless love you smother me in is beyond anything I imagined I’d be blessed with,” she wrote. “I love you to the fullest in this lifetime and the next.”
Support from Bachelor Nation
The reality TV community quickly rallied behind Thurston, with fellow Bachelor and Bachelorette alumni sending messages of encouragement.
- Jade Roper wrote, “Cancer doesn’t know who they’re dealing with. You got this!”
- Kaitlyn Bristowe commented, “Katie omg I love you. Please, can I do anything for you?”
- Clare Crawley added, “You are a warrior of a woman, and I’m sending you so many prayers for your strength.”
Katie’s Next Steps
Thurston has started preparing for treatment, which includes chemotherapy, surgery, and fertility preservation. She promised to share her journey to help others facing similar battles.
We wish Katie Thurston all the strength, courage, and love as she embarks on this fight. 💖
