Kathie Lee Gifford Undergoes Surgery

For years, Today fans enjoyed watching Kathie Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb cohost their segment of the show. Although Kathie Lee hasn’t been on air for quite some time, her fans continue to follow her journey.

This past year has brought significant changes for Kathie Lee. Most notably, she underwent major hip surgery.

During her recovery, Kathie Lee Gifford spoke with PEOPLE about her health and experience so far. At 70, she reveals it’s been an excruciating ordeal, largely due to her active lifestyle.

In the interview, Kathie Lee admitted that she struggles to take things slowly, especially regarding her health. This tendency contributed to her need for surgery.

“I walked, I climbed, and my doctor said, ‘Kathie, no. You have got to realize that this is serious,’” the former TODAY show hostess shared. “I was off my walker in two days, off all my medications in three days, and then I did too much. I just did too much because that’s who I am.”

Her surgeon noted, “You climbed mountains, made movies, got on stages. You never took off your high heels, and you kept going. That’s why you’re experiencing this now.”

“I started carrying books around, signing them, and preparing for events. My grandchildren came to visit,” Kathie Lee confessed. “But you can’t do everything. Through this, I’ve learned that you’re only human and I’m so grateful.”

Despite acknowledging that she isn’t the best patient, Kathie Lee holds no regrets regarding her active lifestyle.

“[I ask myself] would I change that? No, I was doing what God put me on this earth to do. Every year of it, I was doing what He called me to do,” she told PEOPLE.

Now, she’s channeling her energy into writing. Her book, Herod and Mary: The True Story of the Tyrant King and the Mother of the Risen Savior, is now available.

“I don’t know how much time the Lord has for me on this earth, but for however long that is, I pray to be useful… kind, helpful, and loving to people,” Kathie Lee continued. “I am a strong woman, but one who for 60 years has strived to do godly work, love people, and represent the kingdom of God.”

Were you surprised to learn about Kathie Lee Gifford’s urgent need for hip surgery? Are you planning to read her new book? Share your thoughts and comments.

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