Gerry Turner's Heartfelt Revelation

In a heartfelt revelation, Gerry Turner, the leading star of ABC’s popular dating series *The Golden Bachelor*, has disclosed that he is battling cancer. In an exclusive interview with People magazine, Turner revealed that he was diagnosed with Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia, a form of bone marrow cancer, back in March.

Understanding Waldenström’s Macroglobulinemia

Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia is known as a slow-growing cancer that originates in the white blood cells, according to the Mayo Clinic. Unfortunately for Turner, there is currently no cure for this condition, which has deeply impacted his life choices moving forward. The 72-year-old restaurateur expressed the emotional weight of this diagnosis, stating, “Unfortunately, there’s no cure for it. So that weighs heavily in every decision I make.”

Impact on Personal Life and Relationships

This diagnosis played a significant role in the tumultuous end of his marriage with Theresa Nist, which was celebrated in a television special earlier this year. The two had gotten engaged during the season finale of *The Golden Bachelor* in November 2023, married in January, and then mercifully parted ways just three months later in April.

A Turning Point for Gerry and Theresa

Turner described the diagnosis as a turning point for the couple, coinciding with their efforts to establish their lifestyle and future together. With his health becoming a priority, his relationship with Nist was inevitably compromised. “We were trying very hard to find our lifestyle and where we were going to live and how we were going to make our life work,” he shared. However, he prioritized spending precious moments with family, leading to a shift in focus away from his relationship.

Reflections on a Short-Lived Marriage

In a poignant reflection, Turner emphasized his fond memories with Nist, despite their short-lived marriage. “I certainly wish it would’ve had a different ending, that we would’ve found our way, that we would’ve found solutions to a problem,” he lamented. “Most of all, that I would not have had a diagnosis that so strongly influenced my decisions.”

Support and Resilience Amid Challenges

Turner hopes that by sharing his health struggles, he can provide clarity regarding the couple’s sudden separation and foster a better understanding of the personal challenges they faced. Fans and supporters of *The Golden Bachelor* are rallying around Turner during this difficult time, sending messages of love and encouragement as he navigates his cancer journey. As Turner continues to adapt to his diagnosis, he remains a shining example of resilience and determination, hoping for the best as he embarks on this unexpected chapter of life.