[Video] Robin Roberts Makes Emotional Health Announcement, “I’m going to beat this…”

Monday morning, on ‘Good Morning America’ Robin Roberts shocked viewers and announced that she has been diagnosed with a rare blood and bone-marrow disorder called MDS, and will undergo a bone marrow transplant. As some of you know, in 2007, she beat her fight with breast cancer and gave an emotional announcement during the show about her latest health challenge. On GMA’s web site, she wrote:

As many of you know, 5 years ago I beat breast cancer.  I’ve always been a fighter, and with all of your prayers and support, a winner.

Sometimes the treatment for cancer can cause other serious medical problems. Today, I want to let you know that I’ve been diagnosed with MDS or myelodysplastic syndrome.  It’s a disease of the blood and bone marrow and was once known as preleukemia.

My doctors tell me I’m going to beat this — and I know it’s true.

If you Google MDS, you may find some scary stuff, including statistics that my doctors insist don’t apply to me.  They say I’m younger and fitter than most people who confront this disease and will be cured.

Today, I will start what is known as pre-treatment -– chemotherapy in advance of a bone marrow transplant later this year. Bone marrow donors are scarce and particularly for African-American women.  I am very fortunate to have a sister who is an excellent match, and this greatly improves my chances for a cure.

Read her full statement here and watch her announcement below.

[youtube width=”590″ height=”415″]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Kjun3ukZJk[/youtube]