Katie Couric Returns to ’Today’ as Cancer awareness Advocate, Reflects on Personal Loss
NEW YORK – Katie Couric is back on NBC’s Today, appearing on the program to discuss colorectal cancer awareness - a cause deeply personal to the veteran journalist. Her return to the show comes as she continues to champion preventative screenings and research, fueled by the loss of both her first husband and a close friend to the disease.
Couric’s advocacy stems from the 1998 death of her first husband, John Monahan, from colorectal cancer, and more recently, the 2020 loss of Today show executive producer Lawrence Meadows. this shared experience also connects her to Hoda Kotb, who recently revealed her own battle with breast cancer. Couric’s commitment to raising awareness dates back to 2000, when she famously underwent a colonoscopy on air, demonstrating the procedure and encouraging viewers to get screened. Her return to Today underscores the ongoing importance of early detection and preventative care, particularly as colorectal cancer incidence rates are rising among younger adults.
In 2000, Couric walked Today viewers through her colonoscopy “from the prep to the procedure itself,” also demonstrating how a colonoscope works. “It really didn’t hurt. I felt a teeny bit of cramping. And I’m a big baby, so for me to say that, that’s a lot,” Couric shared on the show. “Incidentally, this is why you need to get tested, because catching those growths before they turn into full-blown cancer is what it’s all about. So, make an appointment, and make sure you go to someone who’s experienced.”
Earlier this year, Couric marked what would have been her 36th wedding anniversary with Monahan, posting on Instagram, “We where married for 10 years before Jay died. This is a sad day for me but also a day of gratitude.” She shared photos of herself and Monahan with their daughters, Ellie, 34, and Caroline, 29, adding, “Although our time together ended far too soon, our love endures, especially in our remarkable daughters.” Couric also expressed gratitude for her current husband, John Molner, “who understands there is room in my heart for both of them.”
Couric’s continued dedication to colorectal cancer awareness, coupled with her return to Today, aims to inspire viewers to prioritize their health and engage in perhaps life-saving screenings.
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