Today's Anchor Chat: Hoda Kotb

Posted: Wednesday, October 17, 2007 6:25 PM by Peter Giordano

On tomorrow's show, our fourth-hour co-anchor Hoda Kotb is going to discuss the battle with breast cancer that she has endured over the past several months. (THURSDAY UPDATE: WATCH VIDEO HERE.) I sat down with her to talk further about this revelation, and, among other things, her Egyptian heritage, her early career rejections, and her obsession with her iPod. Read on.

Q: A lot of people want to know about the pink ring that you wear on your index finger.

Hoda: I wear this, just to kind of... it's not like I need a physical reminder of my breast cancer, aside from what has happened to me. But it just reminds me. I feel safe with it on. I don't know... I think when you make it through cancer, anyone who's survived it and so many people have, everyone gets a take-away. My take-away, what I got from this whole ordeal, was the headline that "You can't scare me." That's what I took away. It's such an exciting, liberating headline. If you survive it, that's what you get. And it also reminds you that your life has limits. It's to be valued and not wasted. I decided I'm not wasting one more minute. Suddenly your life gets clearer, and it weeds everything out. It just gives you clarity. And I also wear the ring just because I know that I'm in a big club with lots of people.

Q: Why did you decide to come forward now and talk about breast cancer?

Hoda: This is one of those decisions that you struggle with, in terms of what to share and how much to share. So I really spoke for two reasons. Number one, it's breast cancer awareness month and I thought it would be a good time to talk about this. And number two, I recently met a guy on a plane, and he said words that I'll never forget. He told me: "Don't hog your journey." And when he said that, my eyes just opened wide. He told me that I could keep everything for myself, or I could use it to help people. So right then and there I told myself that when it's time, I'm going to do it. And I did.

EDITOR'S UPDATE: A lot of you have written in asking for the name of the song that inspired Hoda during her treatment and was performed this morning. It is "Was That My Life?" by Jo Dee Messina. Watch the video of this morning's performance HERE.

Q: Let's go to some other topics... Lots of viewers want to know about your name. What kind of name is it, and what does it mean?

Hoda: My parents were both born in Egypt. So my name Hoda is so weird here, but in Egypt it's like Jane. I've walked down the streets in Cairo and someone yelled out "Hoda!" and like 10 girls turned around. I'm literally the Jane Smith of the Nile, but here everyone's like "What's your name? How do you spell it? Rhoda?" I did a whole interview once, no lie, where the guy was calling me Yoda. And he was a name injector and said it over and over again. And you know when it's already gone too far, and then you can't correct him? I just started laughing. Luckily it was a taped interview for Dateline so we could edit it out.

Q: So both your parents were born in Egypt, were you born in Egypt?

Hoda: No I was born in Oklahoma. Grew up some in Morgantown, West Virginia, and mainly in Alexandria Virginia. And we went overseas back and forth. We lived in Egypt for a year, and Nigeria.

Q: Do you still have family in Egypt? Have you been back recently?

Hoda: Yes. I haven't been back in a while. Most of the times I've gone back lately were for work-related stories, and on the side I'd get to see my uncles and aunts and stuff like that. But I haven't been back for a few years. We're trying to plan a family trip back soon.

Q: Egyptian is certainly a more unusual ethnicity here in the U.S. Do you have any specific traditions you celebrate, or unique Egyptian practices?

Hoda: My parents raised us red, white and blue. You know a lot of immigrants from that generation wanted their kids to be only red, white and blue. You're going to play baseball, and here's some apple pie. We were raised in that whole tradition of everyone acclimating. My parents felt that they picked this country, and we were going to be like the people in this country. I don't think we lost our uniqueness though. We still have different stuff that Egyptian people eat or drink or do, and we celebrate those things. And we have a bond... I'll get voicemails sometimes from people I don't know saying "We're so proud of you! We're Egyptian!" And I'm like "OK!"

Q: Tell us about how your got your first job on television.

Hoda: I had just graduated from college and I had my resume tape. I borrowed my mom's car and drove to Richmond to meet with a News Director. He met me, put my tape in the machine, and after 30 seconds said "I'm sorry. You're just not really ready for Richmond." But he said he had a buddy in Roanoke who might hire me. So I drove 4 more hours to meet with him, and I was all excited and planning my life in Roanoke. That guy put my tape in and told me that I was not ready for Roanoke, but he has a friend in Memphis who might hire me. And Tennessee is a long skinny state, and he was at the other end, so I was driving forever to get there. Driving driving driving all night long. I'm a bleary-eyed mess when I meet with the guy there, and he tells me that I'm just not ready for Memphis. After that, I was in the car for 10 days driving all over. Everyone kept referring me to someone else and I kept getting rejected. All of Alabama rejected me. Everyone was "so sorry" and I "just wasn't ready." On the way home, I got lost in Mississippi and stumbled upon a sign for Greenville. I met a News Director there and he was watching my tape, and he kept watching it! He watched past the point where everyone else had stopped. It was unbelievable! My heart was pounding. And I'll never forget it. He said: "I like what I see" and hired me on the spot. And honestly, if I had gone to that job first I might not have taken it, because it was such a small market, you had to shoot your own stuff, and you got paid government cheese money. But after everyone else telling me no no no, it was great.

Q: Before being named host of the 4th hour of the Today Show, what was a previous career highlight for you?

Hoda: Anchoring in New Orleans was a big deal for me because I fell in love with that city. In terms of other job milestones, when you get the knock from NBC News... you've been working in local TV your whole life and then someone calls you and says "Hey, what about the network?" I mean, your whole life you dream of the network! Who doesn't dream of the network? I remember when I first got hired at NBC for Dateline, I was freaking. I kept thinking that someone was going to come into my office and say "OK Hoda, it's time to go back to Greenville. Come on. Giddyup!" I still have pinch me moments.

Q: Some viewers have written in asking what you miss the most about New Orleans.

Hoda: You know what I miss? I miss getting hugged by strangers on the street. They walk right up and hug you. Sometimes they don't even ask. Even better that way. It's like a warm blanket wrapped around your shoulders, that city is to me. I feel a real connection. I can say I miss the food and the music, and I do miss all that. But what I really miss is looking at people who look at you the way a relative would look at you. There's nothing better than a pair of New Orleans arms wrapped around you.

Q: Has there ever been a story where it was really hard for you to separate yourself as a human being from yourself as a professional journalist?

Hoda: Probably in New Orleans [after Hurricane Katrina] because it was personal for me. There's one scene that I won't forget. We saw in the distance a group of people hobbling towards us. They were nurses, their feet were bloody, and they had walked all the way from their hospital. They were sobbing, exhausted, and bleeding. After I interviewed them, I saw an ambulance coming and flagged it down. I told them that they needed to drive the nurses. But they told me they couldn't take them because of regulations. I knew I was stepping out of what I was supposed to be doing, but I couldn't help it. The guy said they can't take anyone to a place other than their final destination. So I said: "You know where their final destination is? Where you're going! They just need to get off that highway." So they threw them in the back and took them. I couldn't just leave someone sitting there. It's a weird feeling when you're in some of these tragic situations and you see suffering, and you're holding a notepad. It's weird. I don't miss my deadlines, I always get my interviews done, and I'm not going to not do my work. But I'm also not a robot.

Q: So how's the 4th hour going?

Hoda: Oh God I love it. I love it.

Q: What do you like most about it?

Hoda: I like walking in in the morning, and seeing the crew. That's the first thing I love. Because no matter what hour it is, you hear "Morning Hoda! How you doing?" You walk into this upbeat, pumped up, fun environment. Imagine if you walked in and everyone was all grumpy and grumbling? It just feels good. And I love the camaraderie of the show. I like that there's an authenticity to it, and it feels real. I love working with Ann, and Natalie, and Tiki and everyone else. When we're all together, it just turns into this zany, fun, smart show. I feel really really lucky.
Today
Q: So where's the dance trophy? [In case you missed it, Hoda won Today's "Shall We Dance" competition. Watch her winning moment HERE.]

Hoda: Ha ha! It was too big! Look, my apartment is only so big. I'd have to take out my coffee table to get that thing in. So I'm letting the people at the Today Show guard it for me and take care of it, as I look for space to rent another apartment.

Q: A viewer wrote in the following, and I quote: "In the looks and age driven industry you compete in, how do you find the courage to be open about your actual weight numbers? This morning you said you weighed 140, and I was thrilled that a celebrity of your status would openly talk actual numbers. So many women lie and put an unfair pressure on others to lie as well. Not all women weigh 110 pounds! Thank you for your support of normal, healthy, shapely women!" What do you think about that?

Hoda: You know, I do weigh 140. And that's on the good days! Somedays the scale goes a little higher than that. But I feel like that's me. Look, I'm 5'9". I've always been a big girl. I've always been the big girl in the back of the picture or on the bottom of the pyramid. I have a lot of hangups I'm sure, but one of them is not my weight. That's just not my issue.

Q: Lots of viewers have written in and asked about your personal life. Are you married?

Hoda: I am separated.

Q: Let's do some getting-to-know-you favorites. Favorite movie?

Hoda: I'm so bad with movies. People ask me this all the time and I never know... You know what movie I love and have watched a thousand times? "Love Actually." I love that movie!

Q: Favorite book?

Hoda: I'm going to go with "The Kite Runner."

Q: Favorite music, or band, or singer, or kind of music?

Hoda: I love all kinds of music. I'm so addicted to my I-Pod it's sick. I have to have it on all the time. I listen to everything from Red Bone which is old but fun... I listen to all kinds of country. Lately I've been listening to Jo Dee Messina -- she's just fun, upbeat. Let me look at my I-Pod hang on... [reaches for I-Pod] I love this new I-Pod! It's so cute. Really, I love everything. I hate to say I like it all because that sounds so boring, but I do. I really love country music, I really love old school, and I like Top 40. I like bubblegum pop. I could listen to that all day.

Q: Favorite color?

Hoda: Blue.

Q: Food?

Hoda: Probably grapeleaves.

Q: Ice cream flavor?

Hoda: Oreo cookie but with big chunks of oreo. Don't give me this skimping on the, oh there's an oreo crumb. I'm talking like chunks of the cookie.

Q: TV show?

Hoda: I watch "Law & Order." And then I watch more "Law & Order." I'm a huge fan. I love that you can turn on any channel and you know what's on? "Law & Order." Like it doesn't even matter -- it could be 3 in the morning, or 6, or when you wake up... I'm addicted. I mean it's the best.

Q: Sports team?

Hoda: I love sports. I love the Saints, and they're killing me this season. And the other team I gotta say... I fell in love with the Yankees living in New York. And I'm so depressed about the whole thing with Joe Torre and everything. That really gives me a pit in my stomach.

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Comments

I too was diagnosed with breast cancer in March. I was fortunate to just have one lump and a lumpectomy. My heart broke when I read about Hoda having 3 lumps. However, when I read about her taking her Tamoxifen every day for 5 years, I felt she was being very selfish worrying about perhaps not having children. I don't have children and I'm just grateful that the cancer is GONE! She should be too. There's always adoption like so many other people in the public eye seem to be doing these days. Thank your lucky stars that the cancer is GONE!

Janet Ripley Demotte, IN (Sent Wednesday, October 17, 2007 6:55 PM)

Hoda, I admire your strength and your willingness to share your story. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in March of this year. I went through surgery and did the chemo and radiation thing. Like you I also am taking Tamoxifen. I am a single mom of 40 with a daughter who is 17 and thought maybe someday, maybe if I got married I could have another child, but that is not an option now. I know it's for the best and that God has a bigger purpose. I applaude your strength. Keep up the good fight and know that we are all in this together!!!

Denise Chynoweth, Caldwell, ID (Sent Wednesday, October 17, 2007 6:58 PM)

HI HODA I LIKE SEEING YOU ON THE SHOW YOU ARE AND VERY PRETTY LADY I HOPE YOU KICK THIS CANCER BUTT KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK YOU ARE DOING JUST FINE ON THE SHOW GO HEAD GIRL WITH YOU BAD SELF .

JOHN BROWN (Sent Wednesday, October 17, 2007 7:43 PM)

Hoda

I'm beyond proud (again) to see you tackling this latest challenge. I always am bragging on you, and now I have another reason to do so. Please know you're in my thoughts.

Beth W (AKA Dr. Waggs)

Beth Waggenspack, Blacksburg, VA (Sent Wednesday, October 17, 2007 8:00 PM)

Hoda, my wife was diagnosed with NSCLC-Adenocarcinoma (lung cancer) on September 18, 2006. She passed away September 20, 2007. Now I miss her.

She never smoked a single cigarette in her life and the doctors did not think to check LC because she did not smoke. In the cancer center all the stage 1 & 2 LC patients were smokers, but half the stage 3&4 patients were non-smokers.

All the experts told us, "you need to worry about breast cancer", "You need to get a mamogram", "if you don't smoke you don't have to worry about lung cancer". They lied. The experts also told us that they can control pain, but they lied. Pain killers do not fix coughing, constipation, incontience, weakness, nausea, spitting, not being able to breath. The experts lied over and over again.

My question to you is, since lung cancer kills more women than Breast cancer, Ovarian cancer, Cervical cancer, and Uterian cancer combined, why all the fuss about breast cancer? I know it is the most common cancer.

P.S. November in Lung Cancer awareness month.

Ray, Alta Loma, CA (Sent Wednesday, October 17, 2007 8:04 PM)

Hoda,

I've been a big fan for years, and I too am a breast cancer survivor. I was diagnosed in November '06 and had a lumpectomy in December. Lymph nodes were clear and I am currently on FEMARA for 5 years. Fortunately my children are grown, but don't worry too much about not being able to bear children of your own, adoption is always an option and you will love them just as much.

Good luck on your journey, always remain positive and God will surely bless you!!!

Dobby Banks, South Orange NJ (Sent Wednesday, October 17, 2007 8:30 PM)

Hoda,
Hang in there! You are not alone.
Here is the short version of my life. =)

Why do I write?

Why DO I write?

I tried to talk.....no one listened.

I tried to yell.....that irritated people cause they did not understand.

I tried to call people on the phone. They did not “get it.”

Then I e-mailed people, they normally did not reply.

Then I wrote letters, mailed them....and got no reply.

I figure I must be doing something wrong.....missing something. Research...more research....and I yell!! Then, I write because I am trying to find help - as an American Citizen, born and raised. I have worked since I was 12. Paid taxes, been a good honest citizen...had two kids....am a wife .....a sister, and a daughter. I thought I did everything “right.” I am not sure I will live to see my Grandchildren born. That is not right.

Diagnosed with Stage 3-4 Breast Cancer 7/18/06. Double mastectomy 8/21/06 and started 18 months of chemo 8/31/06. I told them all....slice and dice me...but do not take my sense of humor. That, along with my family and friends is what has kept me alive. My family has ‘held me up’ and kept me positive.

I had a great job. I used to be very smart. I still have my sense of humor.... The company I worked for closed it's doors 4/2/07 and since they filed bankruptcy, there is no COBRA. I am trying to get through chemo without health insurance and the bills are HUGE. I have filed for SSI, SSDI (been denied) written to House Representatives, State Representatives, Newspapers, TV stations, Cancer care places, and have found that I have fallen through the cracks. There seems to be no help for me. I don't understand how that can be. I was not diagnosed at the “correct” place??? That has got to be a joke. They are turning me away since I was not diagnosed through CWCCI. SSDI says Breast Cancer is not life threatening? I wonder if they would change their mind, if it were ‘their’ Mom or wife or daughter going through this.

How am I supposed to heal from cancer worrying about how to pay the bills, and since I have severe short term memory loss, (chemo brain) neurothapy, fatigue, and had a heart attack too.... now my heart is functioning at 43% - damaged from chemo. Where is the loophole I have obviously missed?

Where are the Federal Assistance programs I should be approved for? I have 4...yes 4 of the 3 ring binder notebooks filled with contacts, information, groups, support groups, groups of groups, groups that pay bills, groups that pay for prescriptions, groups that connect you to other groups, financial assistance groups, and my life and my history and my numbers and my name.... and I am going to gather that and put it all in one book. I have got to believe that I am not the only one that has/is going through this.

I know there is a reason for everything....I can't remember what the reason for this is....only to help others who are afraid, worried...don't know where to turn when their tires have gone flat and their hair blew off.

Jolie Jamison, Westminster, CO (Sent Wednesday, October 17, 2007 8:33 PM)

As a proud breast cancer survivor AND a proud member of HOKIE nation, There is No Why me? There is only Why not me?

We are strong women and in your case, you have many stories yet to tell and I have too many students to irritate!

On the 25th our high school will hold a Locks of Love day with a great deal of haircutting going on......... I will be donating mine locks for my sister's good friend who is battling cancer, our mom who is a survivor and will add you to my list. It is only hair and Dr Giovanni proclaimed last April........

WE WILL PREVAIL! to borrow her phrase.

MA VT '85 and an 11 year survivor.

jb royal (Sent Wednesday, October 17, 2007 8:36 PM)

I was diagnosed with an aggressive stage 2B invasive breast cancer June 18, 2007 and I know that my life will never be the same. The tumor was originally over 8cm long and was first triple negative receptor. Miraculous, the tumor quickly shrinking, the cancer is estrogen receptor positive, and I am about to complete my 12th chemotherapy treatment (Pacitaxol). I will then have four rounds of the three drug therapy known as FAC, then surgery by mid-January. I find it encouraging that Hoda is choosing to discuss her private journey with breast cancer publically. I appreciate her candor in regards to fertility issues associated with treatment. Being single and childless, although I have tucked the probability of being permanent infertility in far recesses of my mind at the moment, it's a painful likelihood. Having cancer is not a "death sentence," there is life not only after but during cancer. I have made more of a difference in the lives of others in these few months than the 36 years prior. My life will be changed forever, for the better. I am able to use my experience to reach out to other people facing cancer. There seems to be even more awareness about this disease than ever. I eagerly await a cure so that no one else will have to endure cancer drama. Also, I pray for heightened awareness and advocacy for those without access to care due to inability to pay. There is a time and season for everything under the sun. This is the time and the season for cancer and for a cure.

TARSHIA, Houston, TX (Sent Wednesday, October 17, 2007 8:47 PM)

I know what you're going through. I have family with different kinds of cancer. One of them I believe has breast cancer. It's scary to have someone with cancer and never know if they are going to go into remission or not. I'm always worried. My great aunt had two bouts of colon cancer 11 years apart and survived them but passed away back in November, 2004. So I know what it's like to have someone who has cancer.

Renee Singleton, Avon, IL (Sent Wednesday, October 17, 2007 9:57 PM)

Dear Hoda,
Please share and educate with us all. I hear so many people share their stories and it's those stories who bring us all courage and give us all the strength we need to prepare for our own future. I am 31 and always keep up to date on my annual visits; however, I still have the raging fear like so many women of will I be next?
Also, please discuss the ecomonical and physical strain that this disease like so many puts forth on each and every survior's family. During my mil's battle we were forced to learn about the usage of steriods to reduce swelling around the spinal area as well as the brain during here chemo and radiation period. My dissatisfication began there with most physicans. So many refused to discuss the amount of mental trama that is caused by these meds that are so necessary in order to reduce swelling but all the doctors and nurses act like they have never seen this type of behavior. Thanks to the internet I learned alot about the effects of steriods that are given to cancer patients. I am not sure if doctors do not want to admit what happens or what but it is not pretty and would be nice for them to educate and spend more than 5 minutes with each patient. My mil has been battling breast cancer, stage 3, HER 2 positive,that metastized to her bone, needing two vertebrae to be removed, and then onto her brain area. With her faith in God and prayers, four years later she is battling everyday but doing well. She was diagnosed at age 61 and never smoked and always ate properly, took herbals, and exercised. She is of small build and never been overweight.
she is a fighter just like everyone else who has and is battling this disease.
We will win this war but we can only do it by early detection and education!

We love you Hoda and keep up the GREAT work at NBC.
I think the determination that began on your long journey of finding a job is the same determination that landed you this success with breast cancer!

LA Hamrick, Marion, Arkansas (Sent Wednesday, October 17, 2007 10:07 PM)

Yoda I love... I mean Hoda. That's a good laugh.

I love hearing about courageous stories about breast cancer (or any kind of illness). They're always inspiring. Hoda's story touches me. Hope she could talk more about it.

Rose (Sent Wednesday, October 17, 2007 10:08 PM)

Thank you for sharing your incredible journey. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
One of many in the Fort Hunt Class of 1982

Drew Taylor, San Antonio, TX (Sent Wednesday, October 17, 2007 10:27 PM)

Hoda,
I applaud your courage and candor in discussing your breast cancer. You are a breath of fresh air on The Today Show. Keep up the good work. I'm there in your audience every morning and you shall always be in my prayers.

Cynthia, North Carolina (Sent Wednesday, October 17, 2007 11:01 PM)

Hi Hoda,
I immediately related to you after reading about your breast cancer. I too am a breast cancer survivor, but what so touched me was your experince with the 'experts'. Three different physicians, three different opinions. That happened to me & I am still incredulous as to why that is. This is my life; I wanted to scream at them, why can't you agree on how to make me better!
I also relate to your experience in Central Park, the day you saw the women who were all survivors. I remember going to a talk on breast cancer and just crying uncontrollably while the presenter spoke about the disease. The sorrow was so great.
Thank you so much for telling us about yourself, somehow hearing it from you makes me feel not quite so alone.

Pat Kelly, Wakefield, R.I. (Sent Wednesday, October 17, 2007 11:13 PM)

Hoda, I was diagnosed with breast cancer June 1, 2007, and had a bilateral massectomy on June 21. I have completed my chemo,begun taking arimidex, and will have reconstruction next week. My faith in God, my family, and my friends have carried me through this ordeal.
I am grateful to you for going public because I think you can be instrumental in finding the cure with your very public place on the Today Show.
I am fortunate that I have children. My heart grieves for you that cancer has robbed you of this. I admire your positive attitude. You are in my prayers.
I enjoyed reading that you worked in Mississippi!
Nan P. Wilson

Nan P. Wilson, Petal, MS 39465 (Sent Wednesday, October 17, 2007 11:30 PM)

My heart goes out to Hoda and all the other women (and men) whose lives have been changed by a diagnosis of cancer, whether it is breast, lung, or another type. I do not have cancer, nor has anyone in my family ever been lost to a cancer diagnosis. But I have been touched and my life changed by the lives of my oncology patients and their families. I am a 26 year old registered nurse, and during my short career, I have already encountered many amazing examples of hope, faith, determination, and strength in the men and women I have cared for during their battle with cancer. I will never forget how they changed my life for the better and helped me to be grateful for each God gives to me. Thank God that cancer is not a death sentence, and that everyday, people like Hoda are speaking out and telling their extraordinary stories of survival. I continue to pray for those who are currently fighting against a cancer diagnosis, and for the families of those who have been lost to cancer. I, too, sympathize with those men & women who are unable to pay for their treatment because of inadequate health insurance and rising health care costs. I identify with the women who may lose their ability to bear children because of their cancer treatment regimen. As a young woman in my mid 20's and as an L&D nurse now, I understand even more how important a woman's fertility is to her identity. I wish I knew the answers for all of these difficult questions…
What I can say is that we are all in this together: individuals, families, and those who care for them, and we will prevail someday. We’re going to win this battle. Thank you to Hoda and all the others who've shared their stories and continue to believe and have faith—there is life after cancer.

Alayna Schwartz, U.S. Navy Nurse, Guam (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 12:04 AM)

Dear Hoda,

What a great job you are doing on the Today Show.
Thanks for yuur story about breast cancer keep the faith.

Thanks for

Jackie Johnson, San Diego,CA (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 4:42 AM)

Dear Hoda, I am a 2001 survivor. My faith got me through.And still is. my family and friends are the best. Use support resources any time you can. You have the ways to get information out there to everyone. God is with you and your family. Good Luck, and don't forget to laugh. Janet L Canton, Ohio

Janet Lawver, Canton, Ohio (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 7:16 AM)

You are so authentic. You inspire me. Always have.

Pam, Philadelphia, PA (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:18 AM)

Hello Hoda ,
You hang in there. We like to see a home town girl on T.V. I did meet you back in the days when i lived in Mandeville ( 95-99 ) you came over to see the first internet cafe. I was the one you interviwed then we just sat down and had coffee. you were so real. Just seemed to be a down home girl.

Meg, Shreveport,La. (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:20 AM)

My Aunt Jane was diagnosed with breast caner at the age of 36. She had surgery and went for 16 years before it returned in her lung. She then went through radiation treatments for a better part of a year and again it went into remission for 5 years. It returned in her lymphnodes and she fought it for another 3 years until it finally took her life yet she always had a positive attitude. She said she was very blessed to have lived 25 years after being first diagnosed and be able to raise her daughter (she was a single mom) and watch her grow up. She always had her family and friends for support. She live life, kept a positive attitude even through all the treatments. She was a Hair Dresser and spent time at the cancer center fixing hair for other cancer patients'. Gosh, I really miss her! :(

S. Miles, South Haven, MI (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:21 AM)

Thank you, thank you, thank you! I just finished watching your interview. You touched my heart and opened my eyes to the very real possibilty of facing breast cancer. I am scheduling my very overdue mammogram this morning. You have helped more than you will ever know.

God Bless

Karen Hall Orlando Fl (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:24 AM)

I celebrated my 5th year in remmission this past August. I was diagnoised at age 35 I'll be 41 in November and happy and (cross my fingers) healthly. What got me thru it was friends and family and the saying "God never gives us more then we can handle". I was given a second chance at life. The biggest thing I've learned is to smash my own spiders and get on with my day. There will be another !! :)

Patti Richmond Virginia (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:24 AM)

Hoda said she focused on the word "FORWARD". She would love the song Moving Forward by Free Chapel. You can download it from the ITunes store. It's all about leaving your past behind and focusing on moving forward. You will notice it's very popular.

Lisa, Dacula, GA (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:25 AM)

Dear Hoda:
This is my FIRST time every responding to a news story! Your journey touched my heart with overwhelming gratitude and I needed to reach out to you- you are a life warrior. I am sure it was not easy for you as a journalist to be the story; however, you have inspired so many. I've had my own journey and near death experience that has made my life feel so much more meaningful. Thank you, thank you for sharing your story!!!

Doreen, Brookline MA (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:25 AM)

Hoda,
Your story touched me beyond belief. Thank you for sharing a very personal and private thing with the world. I admire and respect what you have done and what you are doing. Your are a great role model.
May God continue to bless you.....

Sue Clark Cassopolis Mi. (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:25 AM)

I had no idea you have fought this fight! Thank you for your courage in coming forward with your story as you can reach so many people. I am a 7 year survivor of a rare form of breast cancer--adenoid cystic carcinoma of the breast and had a mastectomy. I was fortunate not to need chemo, radiation or medication. So many people have a much longer recovery than I had, but the quest to survive is the same. God bless all of those who are forced to take this journey and God Bless you, Hoda.

Kathy Spence (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:25 AM)

Dear Hoda,
I know what you are going thru five years ago I had my left breast removed, now five years later they told me my cancer came back this time in my right breast so I just had my right breast removed now I have to go thru it again. I try to be strong but it is hard, but I am determined to fight it again. Hang in there.

Veronica Masters Wareham, Ma.02571 (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:26 AM)

My mother is a two time survivor of breast cancer, as is my sister-in-law. Despite this, I have too busy to make my mammogram appt. moving, changing jobs, etc. When I saw your segment, I jumped up off the couch and ran to the phone. Staying alive needs no excuse. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Mary Jo Steele , Lafayette, In (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:26 AM)

Hoda I know what u have gone through has been trying but i have to tell u that ur story has prompted me to act and be a responsible woman and take care of my body. I have been feeling a small lump on my left breast but haven't gone to the doctor bc i think "well I'm young, i'm 25 its not gonna happen to me but the truth is that cancer doesn't discriminate. I just want to say thank you for waking me up today. and please Know that everything happens for a reason and truly u have touched me deeply. thank you

Januaira Almanzar, NYC (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:27 AM)

Dear Hoda,
thank you for sharing your personal story-i am so sorry you have been touched by breast cancer but your speaking out speaks volumes.the world listens when celebrities share that even when you seem to have it all, no one is immune-i think it helps with the why me? i can touch anyone-the message is that there is hope and life after cancer and everyday you are showing the world that this is true.
may you now be touched by good health.

ronda finkelstein-ft lauderdale, florida (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:27 AM)

I was always a Hoda fan but I was extremely impressed after seeing her on the Today Show. I think she showed such courage and strength by being vulnerable and by sharing her story with the world.

Stephanie Foster Hickory, NC (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:27 AM)

Hoda:

I am also a survivor and when I saw your interview this morning 10-18, it rang a bell. Compasion is what you will have in your heart for women with or who are survivors. It has been 9 years for me. Keep up the good work and you are our VOICE, being with the media. Today, I have a new grandson, he is 5 months and he is my hope. My husband was very supportive during my time with the doctors. My daughters are in their early 30's and I keep reminding them about mammograms. Stay well and live well.

Eileen Savona, Clifton Park, NY (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:27 AM)

ronda finkelstein-ft lauderdale, florida (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:28 AM)

Dear Hoda,
I watched your interview with Ann Curry and I have to tell you what a courageous woman I think you are. I can only imagine how hard this has been for you and yet you are still able to share your journey with others to give them hope and strength That in itself is a gift...may the universe bless you with many more.

Deirdre Rategan Fredericksburg, VA. (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:30 AM)

Hoda- thank you for sharing. I was diagnosed three years ago w/malignant invasive melanoma and have had about 30 surgeries so far (I wasn't a tanner or anything; it just hit me out of the blue). I am 37 now. Thank you for sharing that young, seemingly healthy people can be struck by cancer. Many people think it is only a disease of older age and post-menopausal women. You will inspire many younger women to be screened I am sure. And thank Ann for pointing out that cancer does change your entire outlook, I am glad you concurred with her. When you could be dead at 30 or 40 or even 50 which is young these days, you suddenly become immediately aware of what the priorities in life should be, when everyone's focus in society is usually work and money. Everyone always thinks there is a tomorrow and doesn't realize there may not be. Your youth and apparent health will encourage others who don't realize they could have cancer too be tested. Thank you also for sharing and for the personal details, the disfigurement part of our disease is a huge part of the battle. Thank you for saying if they are the scars to be alive, then great! That's a new way of looking at all my scars when I just feel so ugly because of them.
Best wishes!

Jane Doe, Springfield, MA. (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:31 AM)

I suppose you get funny nicknames. I wish to add mine... Happy Hoda. I just saw you w/ Anne Currie. In your interview you said"just flush it down the toilet". Amen sister!! What a great short saying that says a lot!
Flush the crap out so it can't return and hit you in the butt! That helped me w/ my personnel struggles. You lifted me up. I hope you receive as much love as you are giving. Thank you for being YOU!!!!! Helena Greene
Ipswich, Mass.

helena greene (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:31 AM)

Hoda,
You are a wonderful Woman for coming forward with such a personal story. I praise you for talking about it and sharing your story. I lost my mother when I was 18 (1994) and I know am dealing with my father being diagnosed with Myeloma. It is an incurable form of cancer and I am having a hard time with it. I was in tears listening to your story this morning but at the same time I was tearing in happiness. YOU MADE IT THROUGH IT! Just be thankful for everyday that you wake up and are still brething. Live everyday to it fullest. You of all people know after this terrible experience in your life...take it one day at a time but do all you can everyday...
Just keep on going like you are and you will be around for a long time to continue touching our hearts. I am a faithful "watcher", we watch everyday. I am glad that you are on the show everyday. You are a breath of fresh air...

Jody Abbey, Clifton Park, NY (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:31 AM)

Hoda,

You are one brave lady. My mom died of cancer and many of my friends have gone through what you have gone through. I'm always scared in the back of my mind that it may come to me eventually. If it does, I will remember your strength and very human side feelings you showed us today. Thank you and good health to you for the rest of your days. Nice 2 step also.

Nancy Collins, Lyons, NY (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:32 AM)

Good Morning
My sister and I both had breast cancer not once but twice.I was cancer free for over 5 years and had a mammo every year and had to have my left breast removed.And had to have chemo. My sister was cancer free for 13 years and just 5 months ago had to have both breast removed. But she opped for reconstruction where I didnt.
Now we are going through genetic testing and found out we have a mutated gene.BRAC2.So now we are high risk.But we will get through this .Now I worry about my children and grand kids. But we are a strong family.
Stay brave and strong we will get through this and I know in my heart they will find a cure.
Sending you lots of prayers and love.

Carol Stoddard Tampa Florida (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:32 AM)

Thank you Hoda Thank you!!!
After 15 years i just found out I now have bone metastasis and am starting treatment. It truly does change your life and I feel for the best. You get your head on correct after many years of following "rules" that really are not important.
Thank you for your courage.
Marlee

Marlee Carter, New Gloucester, Me (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:33 AM)

Koda,
I do not have cancer and it is not in my family. But I am a survivor of rape and today thanks to your words, I can go another day. You said that someone on a plane told not to be selfish with your journey, I immediately started crying because my journey has been painful, at least I thought so before today.
Thank you so much for sharing your journey, it gave me courage to share mine. Women survivors are a special breed, I love you for what you did today!!!! God Bless You.

Dionne, Atlanta, GA (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:34 AM)

Hoda and the Today SHow what a moving story about Hoda. I need make up crew also i was so touched by your story today, My mother passed away just before her 52 birthday from ovarian cancer. She was the perfect picture of health. The doctore first thought it was acid reflux then gallballer and so on and so on After a year they decided to do a hysterectomy and found late stage 3 /4 cancer. She fought it for 3 years with many surgeries. I miss her everyday and if I can save one person by knowing what I know now I feel I have accomplished something for her.. You look great and you are a great inspiration to all. Maybe we can also focus on the "SIlent Killing" Ovarian Cancer one month.

Sandy

sandy Boggs,Jupiter,FLorida (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:34 AM)

Hoda,
You are a beautiful and talented woman!!
Thanks for sharing.
Love what you said about moving Forward!!

Maria L. (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:34 AM)

Hoda: You have joined a sorority that none of us want to join, however, we are connected for a lifetime. we are sisters and our energy helps to support those going through just as you have gone through. Our spirit and energy gave you the strength to share with the rest of the world. Yes, life is different and so much clearer and you will be able to share that with others who come into the same position as we have. I celebrated my 10th year as a survivor and my doctor told me I was cured. Cured is a word that the medical field doesn't like to use, but I accepted the cure. I share with those I can share with and it is my testomony to enjoy life and celebrate every day. I never awaken unhappy because I am just happy to be here. I keep anger to the lowest form because I cannot feel good when I am angry. It is important to feel good every day. Praise your God for the blessing. I had chemo and radiation at that time. I had no hair and didn't wear a wig, too defiant. I too thought I took care of myself, but stress is a big part of our issue. Lots of luck and blessings.

R J A Young (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:34 AM)

sandy Boggs,Jupiter,FLorida (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:35 AM)

Hoda, thank you for coming forward today! I cried with you this morning. I've always ignored my breasts, sometimes even wished them gone; I just let my doctor worry about examining them. Just recently, a lightbulb clicked on in my heart...I AM vulnerable! Just earlier this week, I've started a new regimen to keep those nusances called "breasts" healthy and to examine them myself daily. While they don't define me either, it finally sunk in that if they could be diagnosed cancerous, what other places in my body could also be at risk! You are the epitome of class and grace, my friend. Thank you for making me cry...and making me feel vulnerable for just those few moments. Those moments are the ones that keep me aware and human!

Cindy Morr, Kokomo, Indiana (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:35 AM)

Hoda (and Ann, too)...The conversation you shared with us this morning was very beautiful and powerful...reminds me of how significant television can be when viewers are privileged to access such a moment. Thank you both.

Pamela Sumner, Sarasota, Florida (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:35 AM)

Thank You Hoda, Im 39 and will schedule my first mamogram TODAY because of YOU... Your so brave.
Thank You Thank You
Foward!!

Kristen, Lynnfield Massauchusetts (Sent Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:36 AM)

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