The radio show personality has lived with endometrial cancer for over a decade. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the longtime co-host of “The Howard Stern Show,” Robin Quivers, discussed her journey with the disease and how her community of support has encouraged her along the way.
In 2012, Quivers began experiencing trouble urinating, which led her to seek medical attention. During a visit to an emergency room, she learned that a mass the size of a grapefruit was present in her pelvic area.
“It was painful, it was scary, it was bizarre,” Quivers told the publication.
After the initial discovery, medical staff advised her to see a specialist as soon as she returned home to New York City. When Quivers arrived back in the Big Apple, she consulted a gynecologist and a gastroenterologist, but all tests came back inconclusive.
“Nobody was able to diagnose it,” she explained. “They told me, ‘We really don’t know what this is. We can’t identify it without going in and getting it.’”
During surgery, doctors discovered the mass had been resting on “every organ” in her pelvic region, necessitating a hysterectomy. Quivers was subsequently diagnosed with a rare form of stage 3C endometrial cancer, a type estimated to affect 66,000 women in the United States this year, according to the American Cancer Society. Endometrial cancer, which originates in the lining of the uterus, is the most common cancer of the female reproductive organs.
Quivers faced a grueling recovery process, enduring 15 months of radiation and chemotherapy. Amidst this difficult time, she found comfort from loved ones, including her friend and colleague, Howard Stern, who “just surrounded me and made this network to take care of me. I never had to ask for anything. It was just overwhelming.”
Quivers’ support network extended beyond Stern. Friends, family, and colleagues rallied around her, offering emotional and practical support. This collective effort provided her with a sense of security and love, essential elements in her fight against cancer.
After being in complete remission for over three years, Quivers’ cancer returned in December 2016. Today, she receives immunotherapy infusions intermittently, which help manage her condition and maintain her quality of life.
“When you’re in and out of treatment, you’re always recovering and trying to get back to where you were. I feel fine. It’s been 11 years of dealing with this — and I’m still here,” she said.
Quivers’ journey with endometrial cancer has been a testament to her resilience and strength. Despite the physical and emotional toll of the disease, she has continued to work, maintain her public persona, and inspire others with her story.
In the interview, Quivers emphasized the importance of early detection and seeking medical attention when experiencing unusual symptoms. Her initial trouble urinating was a seemingly minor issue, but it led to the discovery of a life-threatening condition. Quivers hopes that by sharing her story, she can encourage others to be vigilant about their health and advocate for themselves in medical settings.
Quivers also discussed the impact of cancer on her mental health. The uncertainty and fear that come with a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. She admitted to experiencing moments of doubt and despair but found solace in her support network and a positive outlook on life.
“Cancer changes you,” she said. “You learn to appreciate the small things, to cherish every moment, and to never take anything for granted. I’ve learned to live in the present and to be grateful for each day.”
Her words resonate with many who have faced similar challenges. Quivers’ candidness about her struggles and triumphs offers hope and encouragement to others battling cancer.
Looking to the future, Quivers remains optimistic. She continues to receive treatment and monitors her health closely, but she also makes time for the things she loves. Her work on “The Howard Stern Show” provides a sense of normalcy and purpose, while her relationships with friends and family keep her grounded and supported.
Quivers’ journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of community and resilience in the face of adversity. Her story underscores the critical role that support systems play in the lives of those battling serious illnesses. Whether it’s through a kind word, a helping hand, or simply being present, the support of loved ones can make a significant difference.
As she continues to navigate her health challenges, Quivers remains a beacon of strength and inspiration. Her journey, marked by courage, determination, and an unwavering spirit, serves as a testament to the human capacity to overcome even the most daunting obstacles.
In conclusion, Robin Quivers’ battle with endometrial cancer has been a long and arduous journey, but it has also been a story of resilience, hope, and the power of community. Her candidness about her experiences and her emphasis on the importance of early detection and support serve as valuable lessons for all. As she continues to fight and live her life to the fullest, Quivers stands as an inspiration to many, proving that even in the face of great adversity, it is possible to find strength, hope, and a reason to keep moving forward.
