Kathie Lee Gifford never imagined surgery would be so challenging for her. The star, who is recovering from recent hip replacement surgery, tells PEOPLE she’s been busy regaining her health amid the release of her new historical nonfiction book, Herod and Mary: The True Story of the Tyrant King and the Mother of the Risen Savior.
The former Today co-host expected the surgery to be easy, but Gifford revealed that it was one of the most painful situations she has been through in her entire life. “It’s been really tough,” she said. The star further explained that it was difficult for her to rest and work slowly, as she was not used to working slowly and resting. She only realized the severity of it when her doctors highlighted its importance.
Why did Kathie Lee Gifford have to have hip replacement surgery?
Kathie Lee Gifford had to undergo hip replacement surgery because her “hip was completely shattered,” as she put it. The television personality shared that she realized she could only do as much as her body allowed her to do. Having always enjoyed a busy lifestyle, she was off her walker in two days and off her medications in three days.
However, when doctors warned her, she realized she needed to slow down and focus on recovering. “I’ve learned from this that there’s only so much you can do. You’re only human. And I’m so grateful,” she said.
Furthermore, Gifford’s doctors told her that she would “never, ever” have to go through this condition if it wasn’t for her active lifestyle. The star, who has been an overachiever, has made movies and been on stage for hours in high heels and still kept moving forward. However, she revealed that she has no regrets because you only get to live once.
More on Kathie Lee Gifford’s new book
Gifford’s historical nonfiction book, titled Herod and Mary: The True Story of the Tyrant King and the Mother of the Risen Savior, is set to release on July 16, 2024. According to the official description, the book offers deep insight into how Herod rose to power, how corruption and an ancient evil threatened the stability of a nation, and how a teenage Mary was called to overcome these obstacles to bring the Savior, Jesus, our living hope, into the world.
Previously, Kathie Lee has released studio music albums and several books in addition to acting and hosting shows. In 2021, Gifford was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her contributions to the television industry.
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