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Popular American Idol alum Doug Kiker dies sudden, tragic death — tributes pour in

The American Idol alum was known as The Singing Garbage Man

The American Idol community and fans are mourning the loss of one of their own.

Over the weekend, previous contestant Doug Kiker passed away unexpectedly, reportedly after spending several days hospitalized.

The late singer was part of the 18th season of the long-running music competition show, which featured judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan, plus host Ryan Seacrest.

TMZ first reported that Doug, who was dubbed The Singing Garbage Man, was taken to the hospital after a concerned passerby walked by him on the street and his appearance prompted him to call 911. He died five days later.

Doug, who was originally from Alabama, is survived by his ex-fiancée Valerie Cook and two children, as well as his siblings yubi.

His death was confirmed by his sisters Angela Evans and Donna Kiker Carrillos-Ramirez, who wrote on Facebook: “It is with a heavy heart that we have to announce the passing of my brother Douglas Kiker. He was sooo loved and will be missed  by so many! [You’re] singing with the [angels] now Bubba. Please pray for our family  as we go [through] this very difficult  time.”

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Doug was on American Idol in 2020

In a separate post, Donna further shared: “Today I got the call that no one wants to get. We lost an amazing person today. He had the biggest smile and knew how to make you laugh.”

She added: “I know I didn’t raise him but I never stopped loving him. My parents did an amazing job with him. Douglas Kiker you will forever be missed. Fly high. Say hey to grandma.”

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The late singer with Luke

A GoFundMe has since been set up to cover funeral expenses, and as of March 17, it had raised $6k, surpassing its $4.5k goal.

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He was originally from Alabama

“Help Us Lay Our Loved One to Rest. It is with heavy hearts that we have to say goodbye to one of the most sincere souls and most hilarious person of all. Douglas, a beloved son, brother, father and friend,” the page read.

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The current judges of American Idol are Luke, Lionel and Carrie Underwood

It continued: “We are now left with the difficult task of bringing him home and covering funeral expenses. We are reaching out for help to honor Douglas’ memory and give him a proper farewell. Any contribution, no matter the amount, will go directly to the funeral costs and allow us to navigate this difficult time without the added financial burden.”

“Thank you for your love, support, and generosity during this incredibly difficult time. We greatly appreciate each and everyone of y’all.”

Jenna Bush Hager suffers wardrobe mishap on-air: ‘What just happened?’

The Today Show host attempted to split the G in honor of St. Patrick’s Day

It appears that the spirit of St. Patrick didn’t come to the rescue for Jenna Bush Hager this St. Patrick’s Day.

In honor of the Irish holiday, the Today Show host kicked off the March 17 installment of Today with Jenna & Friends by drinking a Guinness, the beloved stout from Dublin, along with her co-host of the day Willie Geist.

But as she attempted to take on the tradition (and recent viral TikTok trend) of “splitting the G,” she was instead left with a bit of a sticky mess.

The episode started with a video of none other than Mullingar native Niall Horan explaining the concept of splitting the G, yubi where Guinness drinkers are challenged to drink just enough beer on their first go so the top of the drink lands right in the middle of the Guinness G from the glass’ logo.

Jenna, who was wearing a pretty emerald green dress, yubi kicked things off by announcing: “Make my mom proud, Laura this is for you.”

And while she started off with a big, determined gulp, the signature foam and dark liquid eventually escaped the glass and splashed on her dress. Jenna however took the moment in stride, and joked: “I didn’t even make it!”

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Jenna and Willie were befuddled over how to make the challenge work

“Does anyone have a mop? Or a tarp we could put down?” Willie wondered,” as Jenna, laughing, simply asked: “What just happened?”

“My body couldn’t take it. My body just rejected that,” she continued, adding: “Unfortunately I ruined my nice green dress,” and that she thought she had “all the nice beer moves saved up.”

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The Today anchor was determined to land the G

Next up was Willie, who luckily pulled it off mess-free, though he was just a sip shy of having the beer land right in the middle of the G.

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In January 4th Hour rebranded to Jenna & Friends

Jenna, still in disbelief, then noted: “I just can’t believe someone could actually do that, that’s shocking to me,” and Willie joked back: “This is shocking to me, what I just witnessed.”

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Jenna with her husband Henry Hager and three children

The former first daughter has spent the beginning of the year adjusting to her show’s new format, which rebranded from 4th Hour with Hoda & Jenna to Today with Jenna in the wake of Hoda Kotb’s departure.

And instead of replacing the former NBC mainstay, Jenna has instead been featuring a revolving door of guest co-hosts, such as Scarlett Johansson, Justin Sylvester, Hannah McMahon, Keke Palmer and Taraji P. Henson.

Robin Roberts details frightening run-in at Connecticut home as she urges fans to be careful

The Good Morning America host lives with his wife Amber Laign

Robin Roberts regaled a terrifying experience live on-air on Wednesday when she stunned viewers with a reveal about her homelife with wife Amber Laign.

During a news segment on GMA discussing the issues with bears roaming in people’s gardens, Robin chimed in with a wildlife run-in of her own.

“I remember in my backyard in Connecticut, we had bears,” she suddenly said, as George Stephanopoulos and Rebecca Jarvis looked on in surprise. “You had the mama bear and then suddenly the baby bears,” said Robin before adding: “You really have to be careful.”

Earlier this year, Robin shared footage of her and Amber’s reaction to the animals who climbed over their garden fence.

At the time, she captioned the clip: “We had visitors in our CT backyard & as you can hear Sweet Amber was a weee bit stressed.”

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Robin and Amber recently married in the backyard of their home

The two huge animals could be seen gaining access to their property. Amber was filming and Robin could be heard saying: “Get away from the window.”

Clearly concerned by the incident, Amber whispered: “Oh my gosh,” and her partner of almost two decades questioned: “Should we call someone?”

Fortunately, no damage was done and Robin was later able to deliver an update and said the bears had “got bored and decided to move on”.

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Robin and Amber also share their home with their dog Lil Man Lukas

“Thankfully everyone is safe,” she confirmed and then humorously added: “Just a slice of weekend #countryliving. Don’t see this in NYC!”The bears are one of the only downsides of living in Connecticut as the pair share a beautiful home there.

When Robin isn’t working on GMA in NYC, she resides at their main home with Amber, often giving glimpses into their idylic life on social media.

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Robin spoke about their encounter with the bears on GMA

They adore their zen property so much that they recently got married there. Luckily for them, no bears made an appearance during their nuptials and they were able to tie the knot in a stunning backyard wedding at their private home.

Robin bought the country home for just $410,000 more than two decades ago and the house comes complete with a light and airy conservatory space as well as a pool in the garden.

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They had a magical wedding in September 2023

Robin and Amber’s relationship is incredibly unique too, as the couple only spend half their weeks living in the same house. Instead, yubi they spend weekends together, while Robin stays in New York City during the week while working and Amber remains in Connecticut.

During a previous appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, the TV host told Robin: “I’m reading in the book that you don’t live together because you get up at 3am,” in reference to her book, Everybody’s Got Something, that was released in 2014.

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Robin and Amber have been together for 18 years

In the book, the journalist wrote: “Amber and I have been a loving couple for almost ten years now, but we choose not to live together. Maybe that’s why we’ve lasted almost a decade!” And now, they’ve lasted almost two.

[VERY SAD] The GMA and ABC News anchor suffered an UNFORTUNATE ACCIDENT

Robin Roberts inundated with well wishes from fans after leaving GMA with a fractured wrist

The GMA and ABC News anchor suffered an unfortunate accident

Robin Roberts returned to Good Morning America this week with some unfortunate news of her own to report – she was sporting a plastered-up wrist because of a fracture.

The 63-year-old TV anchor and journalist shared on Tuesday on her morning message and wisdom series on Instagram that an accident on the tennis court (perfectly timed to Challengers) left her with a painful injury.

While at first joking: “You oughta see the other guy, why I oughta,” in the video, she revealed: “I took a tumble on the tennis court and fractured my wrist.”

She bemoaned: “All my years being a competitive athlete, my first fracture and, hopefully, my last one as well. Here we are though!” Robin added later on the show that she actually fell back on the court and her wrist caught the brunt of the fall because of the racquet still in hand.

The host returned to GMA the following morning, as optimistic and sunny as usual, and fans shared messages of support like: “We are broken arm twins…except mine is the left arm! Prayers for quick healing,” and: “Good morning Robin, yubi sorry to see you had an accident. Get well soon,” as well as: “Aww, Robin! I hope you heal quickly and keep your spirits high.”

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Robin returned to GMA with a fractured wrist on Tuesday

However, her return to the show was short-lived, as she ducked out after the morning news, before Lara Spencer joined for Pop Start on Wednesday morning.

She shared later on Instagram that she and wife Amber Laign were flying off to Houston for Robin to moderate an event at the MD Anderson Cancer Center with fellow athletes Chrissie Evert and Martina Navratilova.

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She sported the plaster on Wednesday’s installment of the show as well

And it turns out, Robin wasn’t alone in her pain, as Amber had seemingly injured her pinky as well and wore a bandaid in a selfie from their flight. Robin captioned the snap: “Sweet Amber & I are both on the mend but not stopping us from traveling to Houston for special night benefitting @mdandersoncancercenter.”

“Looking forward to moderating discussion with 2 living legends @chrissieevert & @martinanavratilova. Bonus is chance to see my big brother & Houston fam!”

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It turns out, her wife Amber had also injured herself

When their friend Tommy DiDario commented on the photo: “Love you beauties,” Amber joked in response: “Quite the splinted duo.” Other followers wished them both a safe journey and speedy recovery.

In an earlier moment on Tuesday’s show, when going through a segment on Padel, Robin offered: “I have one tip though: when you have a racquet, and you’re gonna fall, drop the racquet because if you still have it in your hand [motions to wrist], this can happen!”

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Her coworkers managed to get a good chuckle out of the situation as well

She added: “Maybe I’ll pick up Padel,” and Lara quipped back: “In three months,” which left co-hosts Gio Benitez and George Stephanopoulos chuckling. Fans continued showing their support to the ailing host, while also debating whether Padel was worth picking up over the ever popular-pickleball.

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Michael Bublé’s Emotional Journey: A Father’s Love and Resilience

When Michael Bublé’s son, Noah, was diagnosed with cancer, his world came to a standstill. The multi-platinum singer, known for his smooth vocals and effortless charm, suddenly found himself in a battle far greater than any stage he had ever performed on. In that moment, fame, fortune, and music became insignificant—only his little boy mattered.

A Father’s Heartbreak

Bublé and his wife, Luisana Lopilato, received the devastating news in 2016: Noah, just three years old at the time, had been diagnosed with hepatoblastoma, a rare form of liver cancer. The diagnosis shattered their world, forcing them to put everything on hold. Without hesitation, Bublé made the painful but immediate decision to walk away from his career to be by Noah’s side.

“Everything stopped. My life, my career—nothing mattered except being there for my son,” Bublé recalled in an emotional interview. The once-charismatic performer, who had spent years entertaining millions, found himself living his worst nightmare, facing every fear, heartbreak, and moment of uncertainty alongside his family.

A Journey of Pain and Hope

Bublé and his wife remained by Noah’s side throughout every treatment, surgery, and recovery hurdle. The journey was filled with unimaginable pain, but also moments of strength and resilience. Fans around the world sent their prayers and support, as the singer clung to hope, refusing to accept anything other than a future where his son would be healthy again.

After an intense battle, Noah defied the odds and was declared cancer-free. The experience left an indelible mark on Bublé, changing his perspective on life and his career forever.

Returning With a New Purpose

Now, after years of pain, sacrifice, and hope, Michael Bublé is returning—not for the spotlight, but with a renewed purpose. His music, once an escape, has now become a vessel for his deepest emotions, his gratitude, and his undying love for his family. Every note he sings carries the weight of a father’s unbreakable bond with his child.

“My son’s strength gave me strength. I want to share that message with the world,” Bublé said, emphasizing that his comeback is not just about music—it’s about celebrating life, love, and second chances.

A Story That Will Leave You Speechless

Michael Bublé’s journey is more than just a celebrity story—it is a testament to a father’s unwavering love, the power of hope, and the resilience of the human spirit. His emotional return to music is not just a comeback, but a powerful reminder that, at the end of the day, nothing is more important than family.

‘American Idol’ Fans Hold Back Tears After Ryan Seacrest Shares Emotional News on Instagram

The former Live With Kelly and Ryan co-host has been pouring his heart into a major project.

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When Ryan Seacrest isn’t onscreen hosting American Idol, he’s busy with a number of other important projects, including his philanthropic work through the Ryan Seacrest Foundation that continues to expand.

In a video uploaded on the TV personality’s Instagram account on May 24, Ryan announced that his foundation recently opened ups its 12th Seacrest Studios at the Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis. As yubi he stood alongside his mother Meredith and other hospital officials, the snippet captured him perform the ribbon cutting ceremony. What’s more, an official press release noted the media center features new technology that will give patients a taste at potential careers in radio, television and other forms of media.

“Our 12th Seacrest Studios at @lebonheurchildrens is officially open!” he captioned the clip.

When followers caught on to the former daytime TV host’s generous donation to the medical center, they immediately applauded him in the comments on Instagram. “Hugest congrats to you guys on the opening! 👏❤️,” one person wrote. “Keep up the good work! Helping to change the world for the better!” a different fan penned. “Congratulations!! So excited to have Memphis in the RSF fam 🤍🤍,” another added.

As the event went on, Ryan continued to showcase the hospital with photos on Instagram. From posing with current patients to simulating his radio show with country artist Jordan Davis and actress Kat Graham, he exhibited how much the cause meant to him.

As for the reason why he chose Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital to be the next recipient of a Seacrest Studios, he opened up about it online. In an official statement per the hospital, he revealed the Memphis community contributed to the decision.

“Since the foundation’s inception, I have had the pleasure of witnessing the power that entertainment and creative expression has had on thousands of patients across the country,” he said. “I am thrilled to bring together the patients of Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, their families and the Memphis community to continue sharing joyful and meaningful experiences.”

The latest Seacrest Studios joins 11 others like it in hospitals nationwide. The first one opened at the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta in November 2010. What’s more, the Ryan Seacrest Foundation is expected to reveal two more Seacrest Studios by fall 2023 — in Queens, New York and Salt Lake City.

Ryan Seacrest’s Rep Shares Sad Update About His Relationship

Ryan Seacrest and Aubrey Paige have officially called it quits. The couple decided to end their relationship after three years together, according to a source close to the couple who spoke with PEOPLE.

The source confirmed, “After three beautiful years together, Ryan and Aubrey have mutually decided to part ways.” The couple intends to remain friends and continue supporting each other, with the source continuing, “They plan to stay in each other’s lives as good friends and support one another’s endeavors.” A rep for Seacrest has also confirmed the split.

The couple first captured public attention in May 2021 during a Memorial Day celebration in the Hamptons. Despite their public appearances at events such as the LACMA 2022 Collectors Committee Gala and Jennifer Lopez’s documentary premiere, Halftime, in June 2022, Seacrest, 49, and Paige, 26, mostly kept their relationship under wraps.

However, they occasionally offered a peek into their lives together through social media. On New Year’s Eve 2021, Paige, a model and entrepreneur, shared her affection on Instagram: “Safe to say the best part of 2021 was meeting the most incredible man 😍🙌🏼. Wishing everyone love, happiness, safety & health in 2022 🥂.”

As Seacrest concluded his tenure as co-host of Live with Kelly Ripa on April 14, 2023, Paige supported him in the studio alongside his family. She expressed her admiration later on social media, saying, “Ryan, never have I ever met a more inspiring man…

You make it look so easy, but the truth is there is just nobody quite like you. I am so beyond proud of you. Not just for your work ethic, but for your caring heart and the genuine love that you give to others.”

It appears that the entertainment personality will have plenty to keep him busy amidst this break up, as he is set to begin hosting Wheel of Fortune in September 2024 following Pat Sajak’s retirement.

Seacrest, renowned for managing multiple high-profile roles including American Idol, his radio show, and his charitable work through the Ryan Seacrest Foundation, is apparently really excited about his new gig.

In February, the host shared a social media post featuring his favorite snacks, which attracted significant attention and prompted an enthusiastic response from a fan about his transition from hosting Live to taking over as the host of the infamous game show. Seacrest surprisingly responded, saying he is “very excited.”

Dana Perino’s Emotional Confession: The Hidden Truth She Kept from Her Partner

Fox News’ Dana Perino has always been known for her sharp political insight and professional demeanor, but in a recent revelation, she stunned fans with an emotional confession about a secret she had long kept from her partner. The unexpected admission has left many viewers shocked and eager to learn more about the personal side of the seasoned journalist.

The Bombshell Revelation

During an interview, Perino opened up about a deeply personal matter that she had kept hidden for years. While she did not specify the exact nature of the secret at first, she described it as something that had weighed heavily on her mind, affecting both her personal and professional life.

“I always felt like I had to keep this to myself,” Perino admitted. “But over time, I realized that honesty and vulnerability are just as important as strength.”

A Moment of Vulnerability

Perino, who has been a respected figure in journalism and political commentary, revealed that she struggled with whether to share this truth, fearing how it might impact her relationship. She explained that she finally found the courage to open up after reflecting on the importance of honesty in all aspects of life.

While details of her revelation remain private, the impact of her words was evident. Many fans took to social media to express their support, praising her for showing a more personal and emotional side that is rarely seen on air.

Fans React to Dana Perino’s Candid Moment

The news sparked a wave of responses from viewers who were both surprised and moved by her honesty.

“She has always been composed and professional, so seeing her open up like this was really touching,” one fan wrote.

Another commented, “Dana Perino has always been an inspiration, and this just makes her even more relatable. We all carry things we struggle to share.”

A Lesson in Strength and Honesty

While Perino is best known for her role as a Fox News anchor and former White House Press Secretary, her recent confession is a reminder that even the strongest public figures have personal struggles. Her ability to finally share her truth serves as an example of how vulnerability can lead to deeper understanding and connection.

As fans continue to support her, many are left wondering—what other layers of Dana Perino’s story are yet to be told?

Fox News’ Kat Timpf reveals she was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly before giving birth to son

Fox News’ Kat Timpf revealed Tuesday she was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly before she gave birth to her first child last week.

The regular on the late night show “Gutfeld!” announced the news in a heartfelt social media post that quickly led to an outpouring of support.

“Last week, I welcomed my first child into the world,” she said on X.

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Fox News’ Kat Timpf revealed Tuesday she was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly before she gave birth to her first child last week. Fox News
“About fifteen hours before I went into labor, I was diagnosed with breast cancer.”

Timpf explained in her post that the cancer was caught early, with her doctor telling her it’s at “Stage 0 and is confident it almost certainly hasn’t spread.”

“Or, as I’ve explained to the few people I’ve managed to tell about it so far: Don’t freak out. It’s just, like, a LITTLE bit of cancer,” she said.

Timpf said she was already stressed because she was more than a week past her due date and focused on delivering a healthy baby before she was told about the cancer diagnosis.

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Timpf explained in her post that the cancer was caught early, with her doctor telling her it’s at “Stage 0 and is confident it almost certainly hasn’t spread.” @kattimpf/Instagram
“I sat and listened as they told me that the best course of action would likely be a double mastectomy as soon as possible,” she went on to say as she sprinkled some humor into the post.

“I asked all the questions I could, including if I could get a copy of my tumor ultrasound to put on the fridge next to the ultrasound of my baby.

“Finally, by the middle of the night, I was crawling around on the floor of my apartment in spontaneous labor, before heading to the hospital to meet my baby, whom I’d learn at the time of birth was a son.”

Timpf, an author of two books, said maternity leave over the next three months will be different than how she initially planned.

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Timpf said she was already stressed because she was more than a week past her due date and focused on delivering a healthy baby before she was told about the cancer diagnosis. Variety via Getty Images
“Still, as I navigate new motherhood (and new cancer) I’m learning to celebrate everything I can. I’m lucky that we found the cancer so early; I’m lucky to be my son’s mom,” said Timpf, who welcomed the newborn with husband Cameron Friscia.

“I mean, I know I’m biased, but the little dude absolutely rules — and not just because he might have saved my life.”

“Thank you all for your support, laughter, and love as I embrace this wildly unexpected chapter,” she continued. “Here’s to resilience, to miracles in the midst of chaos, and to finding humor and hope even on the toughest days.”

Fox News colleagues and others quickly shared well-wishes across social media, including Greg Gutfeld, who tweeted, “We’re all here for you Kat!”

“You are amazing in every way. And you were heroic in labor given the day you’d just had! I love you,” Fox News host Lisa “Kennedy” Montgomery also posted.

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Timpf welcomed the newborn with husband Cameron Friscia. @camfrish/Instagram
“You’re one of the strongest women I’ve ever known and we have been through many dark times together – there is truly no one tougher,” Meghan McCain wrote.

“We love you and your family so much.”

Fox host Kat Timpf gives cancer update after receiving shock diagnosis while pregnant

Fox News star Kat Timpf shared an update from her cancer treatment center after revealing she got her shock diagnosis just hours before giving birth to her first child.

The 36-year-old host announced she has breast cancer and will be undergoing a double mastectomy in February.

‘Last week, I welcomed my first child into the world. About fifteen hours before I went into labor, I was diagnosed with breast cancer,’ the post read.

‘My doctors say it’s stage zero and is confident that it almost certainly hasn’t spread.’

She received her diagnosis just hours before giving birth to her son after working well into her third trimester.

Timpf expressed her gratitude for the internet’s support after sharing the news but admitted that the sheer volume of well-meaning advice had left her feeling ‘overwhelmed.’

The new mother posted a picture outside the top-ranked Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center on Friday.

‘Once I recover from childbirth, my mole removal scars heal, I get a double mastectomy, yubi get rid of my cancer, have breast reconstruction surgery & am physically capable of getting back in the gym it’s OVER FOR U B*****Z,’ Timpf said.

Timpf shared an update from her cancer treatment center after revealing she got her shock diagnosis just hours before giving birth to her first child

The Fox News  host announced she has breast cancer and will be undergoing a double mastectomy in February

Her startling news was followed by an outpouring of concerned comments, many of which included unsolicited medical advice.

‘First of all, thank you so much for all the support, it’s meant so much to me. This is obviously a really crazy, difficult, unexpected time and I really do appreciate it,’ the mother-of-one said in a video update.

‘But I wanted to address a few things because I’ve also been overwhelmed with, I guess you could say, medical advice?’

Timpf went on to describe the comments, which included some criticism over her doctor’s advice that undergoing a double mastectomy as soon as possible would be the best course of action.

Though not ill-intended, some users went on to describe their own loved ones stage-zero diagnosis.

Some, Timpf said, had recommended that a double mastectomy wasn’t the best course of action as some of their family members only needed a lumpectomy to treat the cancer.

Others, she explained, had claimed themselves to be a nurse before declaring that a double mastectomy for stage-zero cancer sounds ‘extreme.’

‘I just want to say, trust me, there’s no one for whom that seems more extreme than me,’ Timpf said.

‘I don’t take cutting my t*** off lightly,’ she continued. ‘As a general rule, I don’t think any woman does. I find it devastating. But I am very grateful to have access to the opinions of many brilliant minds when it comes to breast cancer.’

Despite referring to the extensive procedure as ‘devastating,’ Timpf emphasized the expertise of the team of health experts guiding her through the process, confidently asserting that they know what is best for her own body.

‘I have been very lucky to have a team that is very knowledgeable on this, I’ve talked to a lot of different people and the focus of all of these conversations is what’s the best thing to do to keep my alive so I’m around for my son for a long time,’ she added.