From late November to January 6th, 2023, the beloved weatherman, Al Roker, was noticeably absent from nearly thirty consecutive episodes of the “Today” show and was frequently hospitalized. This absence was due to a near-fatal health scare he experienced at the end of the previous year, caused by blood clots in his lungs.
Al Roker took to Twitter to inform his concerned fans about his health condition. In his tweet, he explained: “So many of you have been thoughtfully asking where I’ve been. Last week I was admitted to the hospital with a blood clot in my leg which sent some clots into my lungs. After some medical whack-a-mole, I am so fortunate to be getting terrific medical care and on the way to recovery. Thanks for all the well wishes and prayers and hope to see you soon. Have a great weekend, everyone.”
His message reassured fans that he was receiving medical care and on the path to recovery.
Concerns about Al Roker’s health have arisen over the years. He previously disclosed his prostate cancer diagnosis and underwent surgery two years prior to his recent health scare. Additionally, he has had multiple surgeries to address hip and knee issues.
Despite these health challenges, Al Roker has had a successful broadcasting career that began in the mid-1970s, earning him numerous accolades for the quality of his newscasts. He even completed the Brooklyn Half Marathon recently, demonstrating his determination and resilience.
Upon hearing the news of his hospitalization and recovery, Al Roker’s colleagues and friends from the “Today” show expressed their support and well-wishes. Hoda Kotb, Dylan Dreyer, and Craig Melvin all shared their love and prayers for his speedy recovery.
Al Roker’s wife of 27 years, Deborah Roberts, has been by his side throughout his health journey. In an interview, she opened up about her role as his caregiver, describing it as taxing, exhausting, and frightening. She emphasized the challenges that caregivers face and how it has taken a toll on her mentally and physically.
Deborah expressed her gratitude for the support of friends and family during this challenging time and credited her faith and spirituality for helping her cope. She was present to welcome Al Roker back to the “Today” show on January 6, and despite the challenges they’ve faced, she expressed her happiness that he is well and they are moving forward.
