Robin Roberts, television host of "Good Morning America," announced on Thursday that she was leaving a day early for a bone marrow transplant that is expected to keep her off air for months.
"Dear ones, this is my final morn @GMA for a while. Heading home after the show to be w/ my ailing mom in MS. You'll be in my heart & soul," Roberts tweeted Thursday morning.
The TV host, who revealed she was diagnosed with myelodysplatics syndrome in June, will be receiving the bone marrow transplant from her older sister, Sally-Ann. According to Reuters, Roberts' disorder stems from breast cancer treatment she had five years ago.
Roberts, 51, was scheduled to depart on Friday but decided to start her medical leave a day earlier to visit her ailing mother.
The GMA host told audiences, "Our beloved mother, the matriarch of our family, 88-years-old, has had some health issues recently and it's got to the point that Sally-Ann and I need to get home so I'm leaving a day early."
Roberts, who received a special tribute from country singer Martina McBride and was given presents by fellow anchors, also told viewers, "The greatest tragedy is to have the experience and miss the meaning. I am determined not to miss that meaning because through it I have discovered that I have been given many gifts, gifts that will carry me through this difficult time."
Reuters reported that "Good Morning America" producers said special guests Oprah Winfrey, Chris Rock, Diane Sawyer, Katie Couric, Barbara Walters, Kelly Ripa and the cast of ABC's "Modern Family" would be filling Roberts' place during her leave.
According to ABC News, Roberts said, "This means so much, that these friends are stepping up like this. It doesn't surprise me at all because they love the program, and they love what we're doing and I love them for doing that."
Roberts promised that she would be back on the show once her transplant and recovery ended. "This is just, 'See you later. See you soon.' I will get back as fast as I can," she said.
"I love you and I'll see you soon," Roberts added.
Watch Robin Roberts Say Farewell
Robin Roberts Bracelet
Friends of Roberts decided to design a bracelet following her diagnosis to support the host's journey during her treatment. The bracelets, which are multicolored, have the initials RRR printed along with the words, "Light, Love, Power, Presence." The words represent a Protection Prayer Roberts' mother shared with her. The bracelet, whose funds support Be The Match can be purchased online.
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