In a deeply personal revelation, Today show co-anchor Hoda Kotb has shared the heartbreaking inspiration behind her new children's book - her three-year-old daughter Haley's battle with cancer.
The television journalist, who has been open about her own breast cancer journey, disclosed that her youngest child spent time in the intensive care unit and underwent surgery after doctors discovered a tumour. "When your child is sick, you feel like the world stops," Kotb confessed during an emotional interview with People magazine.
A Mother's Worst Fear Realised
The 59-year-old broadcaster described the terrifying moment she learned about her daughter's illness. "You're just holding your breath waiting for news," she recalled, explaining how the family navigated the challenging period of hospital visits and medical uncertainty.
Kotb, who also shares seven-year-old daughter Hope with former fiancé Joel Schiffman, found herself drawing on her own experience with breast cancer in 2007 to help guide her family through the crisis. "I've been through some things in my life that were hard," she reflected. "And I knew that on the other side of it, I was stronger."
Transforming Trauma into Hope
This difficult chapter inspired Kotb to write Hope Is a Rainbow, her latest children's book that tackles complex emotions and resilience in a way young readers can understand. The story follows a little girl searching for hope during challenging times, ultimately discovering it in unexpected places.
"I wanted to write something that explains to kids that you can find hope even when things look bleak," Kotb explained. The book serves as both a therapeutic exercise for the author and a resource for families facing similar challenges.
The Power of Family Support
Kotb credits her older daughter Hope with being an incredible support system during Haley's treatment. "She would come home and be like, 'How's my sissy?'" the proud mother shared. The family's bond strengthened throughout the ordeal, with Kotb emphasising how children often demonstrate remarkable resilience.
While Kotb hasn't revealed specific details about Haley's current health status, she expressed gratitude for the medical care her daughter received and the lessons the family learned about cherishing every moment.
A Message for Other Families
Through her platform and new book, Kotb hopes to provide comfort to other parents navigating childhood illness. "When you're going through something hard, you think you're the only one," she said. "But there are so many people who are going through similar things."
The television personality believes that sharing stories of hardship can create connection and support networks for families in crisis. Her book aims to spark conversations between parents and children about facing fears and finding light in dark times.
Kotb's courageous decision to share her family's story transforms personal tragedy into a powerful message of hope that resonates far beyond the pages of her children's book.
