A fan-favourite weather presenter was left “near death” after a horrifying blood clot travelled around his body.
Al Roker, weatherman on NBC’s Today, suffered a serious health scare and reminisced over his terrifying experience while celebrating his 69th birthday.
In a video posted to Instagram, the star told fans: “This is my 69th anniversary of orbiting the sun, and after everything I went through at the end of last year, I am more than grateful to be celebrating this birthday.”
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He then thanked everyone who sent him well wishes, and extended special thanks to his wife Deborah “for getting me out of the hospital”, along with his three kids Nick, Leila and Courtney.
(Image: John Nacion/REX/Shutterstock)
In 2022, Al was rushed to hospital when a blood clot was discovered in his leg. Shortly after, the clot broke into numerous pieces and travelled to his lungs in a near-fatal incident.
He was also diagnosed with internal bleeding – explaining he lost “half his blood” and requiring multiple surgeries after two bleeding ulcers were discovered in his body.
Al was confined to hospital for a month, calling the experience a “tough slog”.
He explained to his Today colleagues: “I’m not gonna deny this has been the hardest one yet. You know I’ve had my share of surgery.
(Image: Nathan Congleton/NBC via Getty Images)
“But it gives you a profound sense of gratitude for this outpouring of prayers and thanks. I’m a very fortunate person.”
Al underwent physical therapy to help him regain muscle mass from his time in hospital.
It’s not the only health problem he’s suffered in recent years, finally undergoing a knee replacement op in May 2023.
The star was immediately flooded with support from his co-stars and fans after sharing his latest candid post on social media.
(Image: alroker/Instagram)
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One social media user gushed: “I just love you, Al Roker. Great inspiration, as always!”
“No-one starts the day the way you do Al, we love your smile,” somebody else echoed.
While a third fan said: “Travel safe!”
“Can we just agree that Al Roker is a national treasure?” another social media user begged.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
