Hannah Storm to Miss NYC Marathon Due to Health Recovery
Hannah Storm, the well-known ESPN anchor, recently shared her decision to skip this year's New York City Marathon, revealing that she will be watching the event from her living room instead. In a heartfelt message posted on social media, Storm explained that her doctors have recommended she take additional time to recover following her surgery. "I was hoping to be back in time for Sunday’s race, but my doctors have advised me to take a little more time to recover from surgery," the 64-year-old stated on October 28.
Storm expressed her gratitude for being cancer-free after undergoing a hysterectomy, a significant surgery she faced earlier this year. She acknowledged the medical team at The Mount Sinai Tisch Cancer Center, particularly Dr. Monica Prasad-Hayes, for their support during her treatment. "Most importantly, I’m very grateful to be cancer-free after undergoing a hysterectomy," she shared, highlighting the importance of health and recovery.
In her message, Storm also extended her best wishes to all the runners participating in the NYC Marathon, many of whom are running for charitable causes, including her own foundation. "Best of luck to all those running in the NYC Marathon for some great causes on Sunday, including the Hannah Storm Foundation. See y’all soon on SportsCenter!" she added, showcasing her continued commitment to her work and the running community.
Reflecting on her health journey, Storm recalled her initial breast cancer diagnosis in 2024, which she detailed in an essay for ESPN. She described the overwhelming support she received from friends and colleagues during that challenging time. "I told my circle of close friends and a handful of colleagues at work — they sent flowers and texts and it meant a LOT," she wrote, emphasizing the power of support during difficult moments.
Storm's Recovery Journey and Health Advocacy
After undergoing a lumpectomy, a procedure aimed at removing a breast tumor while preserving the surrounding tissue, Storm was relieved to receive positive news from her pathology report. "The surgery went well," she noted, expressing her gratitude for the outcome. "I stayed out of work for a week and returned three days before the Super Bowl, grateful for the distraction of waiting. There is a lot of waiting — for pathology reports and test results, and it helps stay busy and optimistic."
As she continues her recovery, Storm encourages others to prioritize their health and be proactive in cancer screenings. "If you have a loved one in your life who isn’t doing that, please encourage them to do so. You never know what kind of difference it might make," she advised, underscoring the importance of early detection and health advocacy.
The Run-In
Hannah Storm's journey serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges many face in their health battles, particularly those related to cancer. Her openness about her experiences not only highlights the importance of early detection but also the strength found in community support. As she takes this time to heal, her message resonates with runners and non-runners alike, reminding everyone to prioritize their health and advocate for themselves.
As the NYC Marathon approaches, Storm's absence will be felt, but her spirit and commitment to the running community remain strong. She continues to inspire others with her resilience and dedication, proving that even in the face of adversity, one can still uplift and encourage those around them. With her eyes set on recovery, Storm looks forward to returning to her role at ESPN and supporting the running community from afar.
