While many people found themselves settling into a sedentary lifestyle during the pandemic, Joan Lunden was anything but idle. This remarkable television journalist, breast cancer survivor, and former host of Good Morning America has kept herself incredibly busy over the past year. Even though she hasn’t stepped foot outside her home, Joan’s days are packed with meaningful projects and activities that highlight her resilience and passion.
A Year of Remarkable Achievements
In a candid conversation with Closer Weekly, Joan, now 70, shared how she managed to stay productive despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. “Believe it or not, this has been one of my busiest years ever—even though I haven’t left my house!” she exclaimed. Joan’s accomplishments include launching a new season of Second Opinion With Joan Lunden, set to air on PBS in February, producing a podcast called “Caring for Tomorrow” that explores the future of healthcare, and writing a book titled Why Did I Come Into This Room?, which delves into the complexities of aging. Additionally, she participated in a virtual luncheon and symposium organized by the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, an organization she deeply supports.
Joan's Perspective on Breast Cancer Research
Joan expressed her gratitude for the advancements in breast cancer research, which have contributed to the growing number of survivors in the U.S. "There are now over 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in this country, and that’s all thanks to the ongoing research efforts," she explained. Her involvement with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation underscores her commitment to raising awareness and supporting critical initiatives in the field.
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Family Life Amid Challenges
Joan’s home life is just as dynamic as her professional endeavors. She and her husband, Jeff Konigsberg, are raising two sets of teenagers: twins Kate and Max, aged 17, and Kimberly and Jack, who are 15. Reflecting on the challenges of parenting in the digital age, Joan noted, "I think today's kids have it much harder because of social media. It's truly one of the biggest issues they face." Joan, who also has three adult daughters from a previous marriage, acknowledges the unique pressures that come with growing up in a world dominated by technology.
Reflecting on Her Cancer Journey
Six-and-a-half years ago, Joan was diagnosed with Stage 2, triple-negative breast cancer. After undergoing an aggressive year of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, she emerged victorious. "The good news is that because this type of cancer grows so quickly, after five years, you're considered cancer-free," she said. Joan's experience not only transformed her life but also inspired her to become an advocate for breast cancer awareness and research.
Sharing Her Story with the World
From the moment she received her diagnosis, Joan knew she wanted to share her journey openly. "Within 24 hours, I decided I would learn everything I could about breast cancer, share my story, and hopefully make a significant impact on women's health," she revealed. Her decision to go public resonated deeply with many, as a woman in the U.S. is diagnosed with breast cancer every two minutes—a statistic that underscores the urgency of the issue.
Legacy and Inspiration
Joan credits her father, a cancer surgeon, for instilling in her a sense of purpose and responsibility. "Ironically, my cancer diagnosis gave me the opportunity to continue his legacy," she shared. Through her work with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Joan ensures that critical funding continues to flow toward groundbreaking research. "Even as we navigate the pandemic, breast cancer patients still need our support," she emphasized.
Embracing Life After Cancer
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Beating breast cancer profoundly changed Joan's outlook on life. "People often say, 'You go into cancer treatment one person, and you come out another.' And it's true. You emerge with a deeper appreciation for life and the people who helped you through," she reflected. This transformation fueled her desire to assist others facing similar challenges.
Nutrition and Wellness
After her diagnosis, Joan worked closely with a nutritionist to adopt a healthier lifestyle. "I followed a strict eating plan that eliminated wheat, dairy, sugar, and alcohol," she explained. This clean diet not only supported her during chemotherapy but also laid the foundation for her ongoing commitment to wellness. Although she's since relaxed some restrictions, Joan continues to prioritize nutrient-rich foods, particularly vegetables and lean proteins.
Writing and Advocacy
Joan's book, Why Did I Come Into This Room?, explores the changes our bodies undergo as we age and offers practical advice for maintaining health. "I wanted to write something honest and relatable, sharing both my successes and struggles," she said. By addressing topics like cancer risk and chronic illness, Joan aims to empower readers to take control of their well-being.
Aging Gracefully
Joan believes that aging well is achievable for everyone. "Gone are the days when people simply accepted decline as inevitable," she remarked. "Nowadays, you're just as likely to see a 70-year-old heading to Pilates class as you are a younger person." With advancements in medicine and increased awareness, Joan encourages individuals to prioritize their health so they can enjoy vibrant, fulfilling lives as they grow older.
