Jill Martin, a Today contributor, recently shared her experience of battling cancer and going through a divorce in the same year. She spoke on the “Making Space with Hoda Kotb” podcast, revealing that she had been diagnosed with Stage II breast cancer in July 2023 and had a double mastectomy. She urged others to get genetic testing done and make proactive decisions with their healthcare providers, friends, and family.
After her diagnosis, Martin underwent chemotherapy, radiation, reconstructive surgery, and preventative surgery to remove her ovaries and fallopian tubes. She completed chemotherapy four months later, marking the occasion by sharing an Instagram video of herself ringing a bell in the hospital. Despite being in remission, Martin opened up about the ongoing emotional toll of her cancer battle, emphasizing that it is a fight she will continue for the rest of her life.
In the midst of her cancer battle, Martin also dealt with the end of her marriage to Erik Brooks. Brooks filed for divorce in Massachusetts in July, citing September 30 as their separation date. In her podcast interview with Kotb, Martin acknowledged that there were underlying issues in their relationship that led to its end. She shared that each of them was holding onto different priorities that were important to them individually, and that their decision to divorce was not a matter of right or wrong, but rather the recognition that they were no longer aligned in their relationship.
Martin and Brooks initially met on a dating app and got engaged in 2019. Although they had a brief split, they eventually reconciled and got married in September 2022. However, their relationship ultimately ended, with Martin reflecting on the fact that every love story has a beginning, middle, and end. She expressed gratitude for the beautiful moments she shared with her ex-husband, but acknowledged that they had reached a point where they needed to move forward separately.
Despite the challenges of battling cancer and going through a divorce, Martin emphasized that she is thriving under the circumstances. She highlighted the importance of kindness and generosity as guiding principles during difficult times. Martin’s openness about her experiences serves as a reminder to others to prioritize their health and well-being, seek support from loved ones, and take proactive steps in managing their medical care. As she continues to navigate the emotional aftermath of her cancer diagnosis and divorce, Martin remains resilient and committed to living her life with strength and courage.
