Michael Strahan Thought Daughter Isabella Would Die After Brain Cancer Diagnosis: ‘Tough and Painful' as a Parent

Mar. 15, 2025

Michael and Isabella Strahan.Photo:Gillian Laub

Gillian Laub

Isabella Strahanhas “grown in many ways” fighting brain cancer over the past year.

In a candid cover story forTown & Country, the 20-year-old and her fatherMichael Strahanopened up about her difficult health journey after being diagnosed with a brain tumor in October 2023.

For Michael, 52, the past year was “a lot scarier” than he imagined, and he often prayed for things to get back to normal as he watched his daughter go through three brain surgeries and numerous rounds of radiation and chemotherapy.

“There were times when we said, ‘We know it’s painful and tough, but it’s temporary.’ The last year is one we hope to forget, but at the same time it’s shown us a lot of important things about who she is and about who we are and about how we show up for each other as a family,” he told the outlet.

TheGood Morning Americaco-host admitted he was initially worried that his daughter would die after hearing the word cancer from her doctors.

“You have to control your thoughts because your brain thinks of the worst-case scenario, and then you work your way back from there,” he explained. “I don’t think I’ll go through the rest of my life without some worry in some shape or form about this.”

Michael and Isabella Strahan.Gillian Laub

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Meanwhile, Isabella kept a positive attitude from the beginning. There were times where depression would creep up, she said, but “what are you going to do? It’s not going to help in any way. You’ve just got to get through it.”

“I feel like I’ve grown in many ways,” Isabella said. “I’m super-­grateful for walking and talking again. You don’t think of the things you can do until you live without them.”

Since completing treatment, Isabella has health struggles. However, the model is cancer-free and said it’s been reassuring that her doctors don’t think her disease will return.

Isabella said she’s now moving forward with the mindset that tomorrow isn’t promised.

“I’m happy to be here,” she told the outlet. “I think this year has made me stronger. The people in your life are what makes it enjoyable. Now I don’t say no to anything. I don’t think, I’ll do it next week. You don’t know what next week will look like.”

Michael and Isabella Strahan Town & Country Nov 2024 cover story.Gillian Laub

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Reflecting on their journey as a family, Isabella and Michael said the experience has driven their charity work. They stressed the importance of using the platform they have to not only support others but raise money forSt. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospitalas well asDuke Children’s Hospitaland thePreston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, where Isabella received treatment.

“Most people don’t understand what families are going through,” Isabella said. “It’s also important to give back to the staff who helped me, because they saved my life. All the doctors and nurses were amazing.”

“We’re not the first family to go through this and unfortunately won’t be the last, but if we can help at all, hopefully at some point there will be a last,” Michael added. “I want to do as much as I can to help all these families who are not as fortunate as we are in certain ways to get through this.”

Feeling proud of how far she’s come, Isabella offered advice to anyone going through a similar health battle.

“Stay in the present. Appreciate where you are even if you’re in a lot of pain,” she stressed. “Don’t think about the future. Appreciate everyone around you. Tell them you love them.”

“From a parent’s standpoint, take a positive attitude, which your child can take on. Support your child,” Michael added. “Don’t be afraid to cry, don’t be afraid to be emotional and vulnerable. Don’t be afraid to say, ‘I love you.’ Don’t be afraid to say something you always wanted to say.”

“Yeah, don’t be afraid to say something, because you may never have a chance again to say it,” Isabella said forcefully. “And what’s the point of not saying it? Life’s too short.”

source: people.com