Robin Roberts recently marked a deeply personal and emotional milestone, 

celebrating 12 years since her return to Good Morning America following a life-saving bone marrow transplant. 

The beloved morning show anchor took to social media to express her gratitude for the journey 

she has been on and to highlight the importance of increasing donor registries to help others in need.

“Will never forget returning to the anchor desk 12 years ago today following my bone marrow transplant,” 

Robin wrote on Instagram, alongside a clip from her first day back in the GMA studio in 2013. 

The video featured Robin reuniting with her co-hosts, including George Stephanopoulos and Lara Spencer, receiving a warm welcome from the crew.

“So grateful for all we’ve done since then to highlight the incredible need to increase the registries so others can have a second chance,” she continued.

Robin’s Battle with MDS and Her Triumphant Return to GMA

In 2012, Robin was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), a rare blood disorder that affects the bone marrow’s ability to produce healthy blood cells. The diagnosis came just five years after she had battled breast cancer, making her health journey all the more challenging.

To treat the disease, Robin underwent a bone marrow transplant, with her sister, Sally-Ann Roberts, serving as her donor. Following the procedure, she was away from GMA for 174 days to focus on her recovery. Her return on February 20, 2013, was an emotional moment for both her and her fans, who had followed her health updates with concern and support.

At the time, Robin described the experience as surreal, telling George Stephanopoulos on-air, “I keep pinching myself.” Her resilience and optimism throughout her battle with MDS turned her into a symbol of hope for those facing similar health struggles.

A Champion for Bone Marrow Donation

Since overcoming MDS, Robin has become a passionate advocate for bone marrow donation. She has used her platform on Good Morning America to encourage people to join donor registries, helping to save lives just like hers was saved.

Her advocacy has led to a significant impact. According to GMA co-star Sam Champion, in the 12 years since Robin began sharing her journey and encouraging viewers to register as bone marrow donors:

More than 37,000 people have joined the registry

At least 155 people have gone on to donate marrow

Over $2 million has been raised to support transplant research and patient assistance

One of Robin’s followers on Instagram even credited her with inspiring them to sign up, calling her an “icon.” Another shared their own story, writing, “I will never forget watching you, without knowing a few years after you I would be battling AML and getting a bone marrow transplant. I hope my donor sees this and gets to meet me. Yes!! Hope more people register and save others.”

An Emotional Reflection on Her Journey

On February 20, 2025, Robin and her GMA colleagues took a moment to reflect on the anniversary of her return to the show. While she expressed deep gratitude for how far she has come, she admitted that looking back on the experience remains difficult.

“I’m very grateful, don’t get me wrong, but it’s difficult… I love being a walking, breathing symbol for folks that this too shall pass,” she shared.

The anniversary serves as both a personal milestone and a reminder of the life-changing impact of bone marrow transplants. For Robin, her journey has been about more than just survival—it has been about using her experience to help others in similar situations.

Robin’s Legacy of Strength and Advocacy

Over the past 12 years, Robin Roberts has continued to thrive as a Good Morning America anchor, inspiring millions with her resilience and positivity. She remains a key figure in promoting bone marrow donation, working closely with organizations like the NMDP (formerly Be the Match) to spread awareness and encourage people to become donors.

Through her advocacy, she has not only raised awareness but also directly contributed to saving lives. As she marks this significant milestone, Robin’s story continues to serve as a beacon of hope for others battling serious illnesses.

Her return to GMA 12 years ago was more than just a comeback—it was a testament to the power of perseverance, medical advancements, and the kindness of those willing to step up and become donors. As she moves forward, Robin remains committed to ensuring that more people have access to the life-saving treatments that gave her a second chance at life.

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