In a moving letter of gratitude posted to her Facebook page yesterday, Robin Roberts, co-anchor of Good Morning America, reflected on her 2012 battle with myleodysplastic syndrome. She thanked the people who inspired her and provided support throughout her illness and recovery, including (surprise!) her long-time girlfriend Amber Laign. She also gave thanks to God, her family, friends, doctors and nurses, and mentioned her dog, KJ.
The 53-year-old Roberts, also a breast cancer survivor, has been an open book regarding her health issues. But she had never before spoken publicly about her sexual orientation.
According to People, Laign is a licensed massage therapist from the San Francisco Bay area and has a private practice focusing on patients recovering from injuries. She and Roberts have been together for 10 years. They met in 2003 through mutual friends.
Recalling the events of the past year, Roberts writes:
“Flashback 12/29/12….Hard to believe this was 1 year ago today..when I reached a critical milestone of 100 days post transplant…and KJ was finally allowed to come back home.
Reading this comforts me and I hope the same for you: ‘If you are depressed, you are living in the past. If you are anxious, you are living in the future. If you are at peace, you are living in the present.’
At this moment I am at peace and filled with joy and gratitude.
I am grateful to God, my doctors and nurses for my restored good health.
I am grateful for my sister, Sally-Ann, for being my donor and giving me the gift of life.
I am grateful for my entire family, my long time girlfriend, Amber, and friends as we prepare to celebrate a glorious new year together.
I am grateful for the many prayers and well wishes for my recovery. I return every one of them to you 100 fold.
On this last Sunday of 2013 I encourage you to reflect on what you are grateful for too.
Wishing you a Healthy and Happy New Year.
Peace, love, and blessings to all..XO”
On New Year’s Eve, let’s give a toast to Robin Roberts for her courage and wish her a healthy, happy 2014.
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