I'm prepared to fight: Katie Thurston speaks out on her breast cancer battle

Washington: TV personality Katie Thurston, who was a contestant on 'The Bachelor' and starred on 'The Bachelorette', shared that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer.Thurston took to her Instagram handle to announce the news. "Life update: I have breast cancer. Yesterday I saw all the couples post their Valentines Day celebrations. I felt envious if I'm being honest," she captioned the post.

Hollywood Reporter

"Jeff took me to Hawaii and after, we were going to travel the world before planting roots together in NYC finally. But instead, my Vday was spent coordinating a place to live as I have to go back to LA for more testing and treatment," as per The Hollywood Reporter.Katie Thurston, the 34-year-old former star of "The Bachelorette," has announced her diagnosis with breast cancer. In an emotional Instagram post on February 15, 2025, she shared her journey, expressing a range of emotions from despair to strength, and declared her readiness to fight the disease. 

Small lump in her breast

Thurston discovered a small lump in her breast, initially attributing it to her menstrual cycle or muscle soreness from exercise. When the lump persisted, she sought medical advice and, after a series of tests, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her treatment plan includes chemotherapy and a mastectomy. Aware of the potential impact on her fertility, she plans to preserve her eggs before beginning chemotherapy. Her fiancé, comedian Jeff Arcuri, has been a steadfast source of support during this challenging time.

Bachelor nation community

Thurston expressed profound gratitude for his unwavering love and assistance. Thurston aims to share her experience to support others facing similar battles, finding strength in the stories of young women who have undergone comparable challenges. She has received an outpouring of support from the Bachelor Nation community, including messages from Jade Roper, Kaitlyn Bristowe, and Clare Crawley.