Robin Roberts, the anchor of ABC’s Good Morning America and Southeastern alumna, recently revealed to the world that she had been diagnosed with Melodysplastic Syndrome (MDS). However, according to reports, she decided to share this news with her “Southeastern Family” before the media.
The revelation to Southeastern came in Knoxville, Tenn. where Athletics Director Bart Bellairs and Vice President for University Advancement Wendy Johns-Lauderdale, among others, were present for Roberts’ induction into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame. Roberts was inducted on June 6 for her contribution to women’s basketball as a broadcaster, specifically her work with ESPN and WNBA from 1996-2002.
“We went up to Knoxville for the hall of fame ceremony, it wasn’t long before she told us,” said Bellairs. “She told us that she wanted her ‘Southeastern Family’ to know before we found out on television.”
Bellairs said that he and his wife, Annual Giving Director for the Southeastern Foundation Jacqueline Bellairs, were distressed by the diagnosis because Jacqueline’s mother endured the same disease.
“They just held each other and cried,” said Bellairs.
However, despite the diagnosis, Roberts has maintained a positive attitude and expects to make a full recovery in time.
“Of course, she looked concerned when she told us,” said Lauderdale. “Right away she said that she got through her first illness because of prayers, family and friends. It was sad to hear, but you had to be positive because she was so positive.”
According to the Associated Press, MDS is a bone marrow disease that affects the marrows ability to create healthy blood cells that was once known as pre-leukemia. While Roberts could not be reached for comment, she posted a statement on June 11 where she explained that she received the news on the day that Good Morning America finally beat the Today Show for the first time in 16 years.
“Talk about your highs and lows!” Roberts stated.
Roberts also revealed that her sister, Sally-Ann Roberts, is a perfect match for a bone marrow transplant, which is a vital part of her treatment.
“Bone marrow donors are scarce and particularly for African-American women,” Roberts stated. “I am very fortunate to have a sister who is an excellent match, and this greatly improves my chances for a cure.”
To that end, Roberts’ need for treatment has  sparked an increase in registered bone marrow donors. In a June 26 story by the Associated Press, it was stated that the number of registered bone marrow donors doubled since her announcement.
According to Lauderdale, the transplant procedure will not be until the fall and until then, Southeastern will be behind the famed alumna, helping and supporting in anyway it can.
“She loves Southeastern and its students, and she considers that this is where her roots are, and anyone who meets her feels right away this unbelievable connection,” said Lauderdale. “The main thing right now is trying to come up with ways for students, faculty and staff to support her and show her that we’re fighting right there with her.”