Katie Thurston announces devastating update on cancer battle aged just 34

Reality TV Star Katie Thurston Shares Update on Breast Cancer Battle, Disease Progresses to Stage 4

In a somber announcement, Bachelorette alum Katie Thurston has revealed a significant shift in her breast cancer diagnosis. Just a week following her marriage to Jeff Arcuri, the 34-year-old reality personality disclosed to her followers that her cancer has metastasized to her liver, advancing her condition from stage 3 to stage 4. This health update arrives shortly after her recent wedding and initial diagnosis, prompting her to begin a new phase of treatment.

Cancer Spreads to Liver, Stage 4 Diagnosis

Thurston conveyed the development to fans via an Instagram video on Friday, stating, “After several days of anticipation, I unfortunately learned today that my breast cancer has spread to my liver.” She clarified, “It is relatively small, yet it nonetheless places me at stage four.”

Despite the gravity of the news, the former Bachelorette star indicated a sense of optimism, noting that the metastasis was detected early. She also expressed trust in her medical team and the path forward.

Treatment Plan and Optimistic Outlook

The reality star announced the commencement of her revised treatment regimen, which will include chemotherapy, starting next Friday.

“I know stage four can sound very daunting, and it can be,” she acknowledged. “However, considering that I am triple positive and the spots on my liver are quite small and identified early, I am very optimistic about my prognosis.”

She further communicated a strong sense of assurance in her physicians and healthcare professionals.

Diagnosis Timeline and Patient Advocacy

In her post caption, Thurston reflected on the period leading up to treatment: “43 days since diagnosis and still no treatment? There is extensive testing and preparation involved in cancer treatment. A crucial test is determining if the cancer has metastasized (spread). Regrettably, for me, it has, and I am now #stage4breastcancer. I will finally commence my treatment next week.”

Thurston used her platform to raise awareness, explaining her decision to conduct a CNN interview amidst her personal challenges: “Today I would have finally started treatment. But instead, I have an appointment to discuss the suspicious spot found on my liver during my PET scan. And after that meeting, while still processing the information, I’m heading to CNN for another interview. Why? Because this needs to be discussed more.”

She emphasized the concerning trend among younger women, stating, “Whatever is happening amongst younger women is alarming. It’s not normal. And current medical standards haven’t adapted concerning mammogram schedules, leading to women discovering their diagnosis later.”

Thurston urged proactive health measures and open communication: “Last summer when I initially felt that lump, I would have been more proactive had I known there was an increase in young breast cancer patients. Talk about it to your sister, your friend, your colleague, your significant other.”

Fan Questions and Treatment Details

Responding to fan inquiries on her Instagram Stories, Thurston addressed concerns and provided additional details about her condition and treatment.

Emotional State

When asked about her fear level, she responded: “Scared: 0, Sad: 7, Pain: 5, Tired: 10, Ready: 100,” reflecting a resilient and determined attitude.

Mastectomy Considerations

Regarding the possibility of a mastectomy, Thurston stated, “That’ll be a choice down the road. Given my circumstances, I’ll probably opt for a double mastectomy with breast reconstruction, which is covered by insurance. Some options are implants or DIEP Flap (which uses my own fat).”

Liver Treatment Plan

Concerning the treatment approach for her liver metastasis, she clarified: “The plan is essentially the same as my breast cancer. The cancer within the liver is from the breast cancer spreading, not a new type of cancer. So, in basic terms, my breast cancer is the origin and will be the focus. Six rounds of chemotherapy to start.”

Life Beyond Treatment

Thurston also shared her aspirations for life after completing treatment and addressed the emotional impact of her diagnosis.

Post-Treatment Plans

Asked about her first action after finishing chemotherapy, she replied, “Jeff and I are re-doing our trip to Maui and to the fullest. We were in Maui when I received the call, and it truly overshadowed the trip for us.”

Support System

Regarding appointment companionship while her husband is on tour, Thurston explained, “My treatment is spaced out as six treatments initially, three weeks apart. A treatment is essentially a dedicated day for travel/infusions/recovery. He will likely miss the first three, but the positive aspect is, if I feel up to it, I can still travel to his tour locations as early as the following day.”

Perspective on Life

Reflecting on the impact on her views on life and mortality, Thurston shared, “I know long term, a lot will change for me. In the immediate mindset, I’ve been both pleased and disappointed by who I have and haven’t heard from.”

She added a poignant reminder about relationships: “Ultimately, not everyone is meant to be in your life permanently. Some individuals are simply a season. Appreciate them for their time and move forward.”

Initial Diagnosis and Journey

Thurston’s breast cancer journey began with a diagnosis on February 13th, following the discovery of a painful breast lump. Notably, she has no family history of the disease. She was initially scheduled to participate in the I-Spy breast cancer trial before the recent advancement of her stage.

Prior to learning about the liver metastasis, Thurston was preparing for the I-Spy trial, which was to include measures to reduce tumor size and multiple rounds of chemotherapy. This trial is now postponed pending further evaluations.

Whirlwind Romance and Family Plans

Life events have unfolded rapidly for Thurston and Arcuri. They connected via Instagram a year prior, became engaged within five months, and recently married in an intimate backyard ceremony with family.

The couple has also embraced pet parenthood by adopting a rescue dog and initiated IVF treatment to pursue their aspirations of starting a family. “We dedicated two weeks before addressing anything else breast cancer related to undergoing IVF,” Thurston shared, highlighting their proactive approach to family planning amid health challenges. They successfully retrieved and froze embryos.

Thurston lauded Arcuri’s unwavering support through her health challenges, noting his presence at every appointment and active involvement in her IVF process. She emphasized his ability to provide levity and match her emotional needs during this period.

“[Our wedding] was a kind gesture of him affirming, truly, in sickness and in health,” Thurston expressed, highlighting the depth of their commitment. “He is proving that he’s here to stay. He shows up every day, and he does it in ways that just continue to surprise.”

Career Background

Before her reality TV career, Thurston worked as a bank marketing manager. She gained national recognition as a contestant on season 25 of The Bachelor, subsequently leading season 17 of The Bachelorette.