Kathie Lee Gifford at the 2020 Clive Davis Pre-Grammy Party

Kathie Lee Gifford Suffers Recovery Set Back After Nasty Fall Landed Her In The ER

Home / News / Kathie Lee Gifford Suffers Recovery Set Back After Nasty Fall Landed Her In The ER

By Afouda Bamidele on July 31, 2024 at 2:30 PM EDT

Kathie Lee Gifford is facing another health hurdle as she recovers from a recent hip replacement surgery.

The beloved TV personality revealed that she suffered a nasty fall at home, resulting in a fractured pelvis and a return to the hospital. The incident has undoubtedly dealt a significant blow to her recovery process.

Kathie Lee Gifford, who was already counting down on her remaining recovery days, had to restart the timer after a fall that landed her back in the hospital.

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Kathie Lee Gifford Called The Incident A 'Humbling Experience' 

Kathie Lee Gifford at the 2020 Clive Davis Pre-Grammy Party - Beverly Hills
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Gifford attributed the accident to overexerting herself while moving 300 books during signings in Nashville. "I weakened my body. It's my own fault," she admitted. 

Already in recovery from a hip replacement surgery, the 70-year-old's weakened state made her susceptible to further injury. This likely contributed to her tripping and falling the next day as she hurried to greet a friend at the door. In her words:

"It didn't take much because I was weak in that spot. And the next thing you know, I am back in the hospital with a fractured pelvis, the front and the back. That's more painful than anything I went through with the hip. The pelvis is unbelievably painful. But anyway, here I am."

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Speaking with PEOPLE, the actress described the ordeal as a "humbling experience." She decided to extend her hospital stay to a whole week, stating, "I don't trust myself." 

Gifford reflected on the challenges of aging, noting, "You think you know your body, and the next thing you know, your body changes when you get older. And as much as I don't wanna think about it, I am."

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The Former 'Today' Co-Host Reflects On Grueling Hip Replacement Recovery

Before experiencing the excruciating pain of a fractured pelvis, Gifford had already endured what she described as "one of the most painful situations of my entire life" with her hip replacement surgery and recovery. 

While admitting, "It's been really hard," she mentioned that the surgery was a consequence of her active lifestyle, a fact emphasized by her surgeon. 

However, despite the difficult recovery process, Gifford remained unapologetic about living life to its fullest. Reflecting on her experiences, she noted:

"Would I change that? No, I was doing what God put me on this earth to do. Every year of it, I was doing what He called me to do."

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The Author's Book Release Shines Amid Health Challenges

Despite facing a significant health setback with her recent hospitalization, Gifford is excited about her latest literary endeavor. 

Her new book, "Herod and Mary: The True Story of the Tyrant King and the Mother of the Risen Savior," is historical nonfiction that delves into the lives of biblical figures Herod and Mary. The official description of the book reads:

"Deep insight to how Herod came to power, how corruption and an ancient evil threatened the stability of a nation, and how a teenage Mary was called to traverse these obstacles to bring the Savior, Jesus, our living hope, into the world."  

Inspired by a trip to Israel, Gifford noted that her son Cody encouraged her to bring these compelling stories to life.

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The 70-Year-Old Is Experiencing A Year Of Contrasts 

This July has presented a stark contrast for Gifford compared to her previous year's experience. Last summer, instead of enduring pain, Gifford was basking in the joy of becoming a grandmother for the second time.

At the time, The Blast reported that her daughter, Cassidy Erin, welcomed a son and shared the happy news on Instagram. 

The proud grandmother was quick to express her admiration in the comments section. "Cassidy, you and Ben are a wonder," she gushed, praising the new parents.

Gifford marveled at their love for each other and how it beautifully translated into their care for their newborn son, Finn. "He is the best of both of you!" she added with heartfelt pride.

Expressing her gratitude, she added, "Praise our loving LORD, Who is the God of family! I am beyond rejoicing with you, and for you!"

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Kathie Lee Gifford Shared Heartwarming Photo With New Grandson, Finn

Kathie Lee Gifford Talks Daughter Cassidy's Post Wedding 'Four-Day Bash'
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Still basking in the happiness of being a Bubbie twice over, Gifford delighted her followers by sharing a photo of herself cradling Finn. 

She gushed in the caption, "What a joy to spend sweet time with baby FINN. I am the most blessed of women. It seems! Happy Fourth of July, everybody."

The post quickly garnered a flood of affectionate responses from her fans. One follower exclaimed, "Oh my goodness! Congratulations!" while another highlighted the special bond between grandparent and grandchild. 

Others shared their well-wishes, with one commenting, "God Bless. Grandchildren bring the love to another level," and another adding, "You look like the happiest grandmother in the world."

During this challenging time, Kathie Lee Gifford's optimism and faith guide her as she takes a much-needed pause to heal.

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