Norah O’Donnell, the CBS Morning anchor, has recently shared the emotional impact of her skin cancer diagnosis, revealing the challenges she faced and the lessons she learned along the way. The 43-year-old journalist, known for her composed presence on television, described the experience as both frightening and transformative, emphasizing the importance of regular checkups and early detection.

The journey began when O’Donnell went in for a routine skin examination just before Thanksgiving. She explained that her previous skin check, done two years ago, had come back clear. However, feeling that it had been some time since her last visit, she scheduled another appointment with her dermatologist, Dr. Elizabeth Hale. During the check, Dr. Hale noticed two spots on O’Donnell’s back that raised concern. The dermatologist decided to biopsy the spots, and soon after, O’Donnell received an urgent email about the results.

“I was in Washington, D.C., with my family for the holiday when I got an email from Dr. Hale saying I needed to come in immediately. That’s when I found out I had melanoma,” O’Donnell recalled. While the news was alarming, Dr. Hale reassured her that the condition was treatable if caught early. O’Donnell, however, still had to process the emotional weight of the diagnosis. “I was terrified at first, but I was also grateful that it was detected early,” she said.

Melanoma in situ, the type of cancer O’Donnell was diagnosed with, is a localized form of skin cancer that is highly treatable if caught early. O’Donnell underwent surgery in early January to remove the cancerous cells, which required a significant incision. Afterward, she received a biopsy report with clear margins, providing her with some relief. Though the surgery was a success, the emotional toll of the diagnosis was harder to overcome. “It was the first time something medically happened that really scared me,” O’Donnell admitted. She added that the experience had a profound effect on her emotional well-being and changed how she views her health.

In addition to the physical toll, the recovery process posed its own set of challenges. After surgery, O’Donnell was unable to exercise for six weeks, which deeply affected her mood. “Not being able to work out was one of the hardest parts for me,” she said. “Exercise has always been a big part of my routine, and I struggled mentally without it.” She learned firsthand the close link between physical activity and mental health, a realization that she now prioritizes more than ever.

The diagnosis also impacted her family, with her husband and children understandably worried. O’Donnell shared that her son, 9 years old at the time, asked if there was any chance she could die from the surgery. “I had to reassure him that everything was going to be okay,” she recalled, reflecting on the fear and uncertainty that gripped her family during that time.

As she recovered, O’Donnell began to research melanoma and its causes. She learned that melanoma in situ is often linked to prolonged exposure to UV rays and, in her case, potentially from frequent visits to tanning salons during her youth in San Antonio, Texas. “I was very active—running track, cheering, and spending time outdoors. Back then, tanning salons were more common, and I didn’t think about the risks,” she explained. “Now, I make sure to protect my skin properly with sunscreen and use self-tanner instead.”

This experience has led O’Donnell to become an advocate for preventative care and regular checkups. She emphasizes the importance of getting routine skin exams, especially since melanoma rates are on the rise. “We tend to delay preventive care, but that can be dangerous,” she warned. O’Donnell now schedules skin checks every four months, and during one of her follow-ups, two additional spots were removed—luckily, both were benign. “Even small things, like having regular checkups, can make a big difference in catching things early,” she said.

O’Donnell’s openness about her diagnosis has resonated with many, shining a light on the need for early detection and regular health screenings. Her experience serves as a valuable reminder that prioritizing health is essential, especially in an age where busy schedules often lead people to neglect routine care.

As she continues her recovery, O’Donnell hopes that her story will inspire others to be proactive in their own health care routines and to never underestimate the importance of preventive measures. Her journey is a testament to the power of vigilance and self-care, encouraging others to take charge of their well-being.

In a world where the demands of daily life can easily lead to overlooking personal health, O’Donnell’s story is a powerful call to action for everyone to stay vigilant and take preventative steps in caring for themselves.