Former “Dancing With the Stars” contestant Jeannie Mai is on the road to recovery after going under the knife following a diagnosis of a life-threatening condition. 41-year-old Mai updated fans from her hospital bed following her exit from “DWTS” over the medical emergency.
“I would never imagine ever having to write this, but I made it safely out of my emergency surgery. I will be forever grateful to Dr. Nasseri who identified my potentially life-threatening condition,” Mai wrote to fans while showing herself lying in a hospital bed.
Jeannie Mai was smiling and looked pretty good for having just undergone surgery. She also had a lovely bouquet of balloons tied to her bed while explaining what she was experiencing that led to her hospitalization.
“What simply started as a sore throat had unbeknownst to me become a dangerous infection that already closed at least 60% of my airway and resulted in a throat abscess that spread in a matter of 3 days.”
The talk show host was diagnosed with epiglottis, which occurs when a small piece of cartilage covers a person’s windpipe and blocks the flow of air into their lungs.
Jeannie Mai is happy to be out of surgery but extremely disappointed about having to pull out of “DWTS.”
“Although I am grateful to be recovering safely, I can’t lie… I am devastated by the fact that my journey with #DWTS will end this way ?? Dancing on this show has been the most exhilarating adventure. I’ve gained both beautiful friendships and loving supporters.”
“Dancing With the Stars” was sorry to see the talk show host leave and said in a statement:
“Jeannie has inspired us, along with millions of fans, with her energy and dedication. We wish her a full and speedy recovery. Since Jeannie had to withdraw from the competition, tonight’s show will feature the eight remaining couples and a single elimination.”
Along with her own disappointment, Mai didn’t forget about her teammate, Brandom Armstrong with a special shout out.
“I’m sorry you don’t get to make fun of my moves anymore while I share my life gems on how to be a grown up?? Love u so much lil bro, and will ALWAYS cherish the memories we made!!!” she wrote on Instagram.
Now that she’s out of surgery and has lots of time on her hands, Mai has also vowed to cast votes for the remaining contestants and support everyone involved.
After giving the good update on a successful surgery, Jeannie Mai was showered with love from her fans and celebrity fans.
Her “DWTS” partner, Brandon Armstrong, wrote “Listen here my little Gus Gus! There is no other fainting goat I would have rather had this experience with!”
Singer Jewel dropped into the comments to write, “Gosh- glad your ok!! Sending move to you!”
“Queer Eye for the Straight Guy” star Carson Kressley was also happy for the update, writing, “Omg I’m so happy you are ok and doing well. You will cha cha again ! They HAVE to have you back next season !”
