Jill Martin Brooks Shares Emotional Breast Cancer Recovery Journey: Triumphantly Returns to 'Today'

Jill Martin Brooks Gets Emotional Over Breast Cancer Recovery

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Today, lifestyle contributor Jill Martin Brooks is finding joy in the little moments during her battle with breast cancer.

Brooks, who is 47 years old, became emotional while sharing her "She Made It" interview with Lucy Aylen, the founder of Never Fully Dressed, on the March 19 episode of Today. Co-host Craig Melvin pointed out, "That was your first 'She Made It' segment since finishing your treatment."

Brooks expressed, "It definitely was. I'm back, baby."

Dylan Dreyer shared, "We're so happy you're here," with her cohosts echoing the sentiment. Al Roker added, "You were never gone, not in our hearts." After the trio celebrated her recovery with applause, Brooks was moved to tears.

"Don't cry, don't cry. We gotcha. We love you," Dreyer, 42, said. Brooks shared with her colleagues that she was shedding "happy tears" before Melvin, 44, stood up to give her a warm hug.

In July 2023, Brooks disclosed that she had received a stage II breast cancer diagnosis one month earlier. In an essay for Today.com, she explained, "I am sharing my story now because I couldn't go through multiple surgeries and the recovery process, both physically and mentally, without urging everyone to consult their doctors about genetic testing." She reflected on her family's history with breast cancer as well.

She added, "After my first surgery, I expect that most of you will have received your results and can start planning ahead with your healthcare providers, family, and friends."

Jill Martin Brooks Gets Emotional Over Breast Cancer Recovery

Brooks came back to Today in August 2023 following a double mastectomy. During the procedure, doctors removed a tumor and more than a dozen lymph nodes. Dr. Elisa Port, her surgeon, mentioned to host Savannah Guthrie that everything went extremely well. Dr. Port highlighted Jill's positive attitude throughout the process, stating, "Jill had the best attitude I've ever seen. It's truly a collaborative effort as a surgeon, and it's a privilege to be able to care for her."

During her chemotherapy treatment, Brooks used a cold cap to help reduce her hair loss. In a November 2023 Instagram video, she shared, "It’s like 12 hours, negative 32 degrees Fahrenheit. I kept a lot of it. The underneath is mostly gone, but I have this, which I think is holding on. [You] can’t color your hair for six months after. You can’t wash it in the shower. You have to, you know, be very careful about it."

That same month, Brooks celebrated Thanksgiving by announcing she had completed chemotherapy. She posted on Instagram, "I ring this bell with all my might. Honoring my mother who beat this disease, my grandmother who we lost to it and to all those who fought and are continuing to fight this battle." She shared clips and pics of herself ringing the bell, a tradition for cancer patients as they end their treatment.

She said, "I feel like I can accomplish anything now. But first, I'm going to indulge in my husband's stuffing, enjoy some sushi, sip a dirty martini, and get hugs from some of my favorite people."

Editor's P/S:

Jill Martin Brooks's journey through breast cancer is a poignant reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit. Her emotional interview on "Today" highlights the transformative power of community and the importance of celebrating small victories in the face of adversity. Brooks's openness about her diagnosis and treatment inspires others to seek support and embrace the hope that comes from shared experiences.

The article emphasizes the role of genetic testing in early detection and the importance of following up with healthcare providers. Brooks's collaboration with her surgeon and her positive attitude throughout the process underscore the significance of patient-centered care. Her use of a cold cap to minimize hair loss and her gratitude for completing chemotherapy are testaments to her determination and perseverance. Brooks's story serves as a call to action for increased awareness and support for those affected by breast cancer, reminding us that together, we can make a difference in the lives of those fighting this disease.