Gerry Turner Reveals Rare Cancer Diagnosis: Gerry Turner, the 73-year-old star of The Golden Bachelor, has shared his battle with Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia, a rare and incurable form of bone marrow cancer. Turner disclosed his diagnosis, explaining how it has impacted his life and relationships, including his recent split from ex-wife Theresa Nist. Despite the diagnosis, Turner remains optimistic and leads an active lifestyle.
Turner and Nist tied the knot during a televised special in January but divorced three months later. He revealed that the diagnosis came just weeks before their split. Nist, while “extremely upset” upon hearing the news, has clarified that the diagnosis did not play a role in their decision to part ways.
Staying Active and Positive
Turner, known for his love of pickleball, continues to stay active despite his health challenges. He plays pickleball three times a week for three hours and goes on three-mile walks twice a week. Reflecting on the sport, Turner told USA Pickleball last year,
“The spirit of the competition stays the same… people are inclusive with players who aren’t quite as good”(Gerry Turner)
Turner is also following medical advice to reduce alcohol and sugar intake. He undergoes blood tests every six months and is in the early stages of the disease, showing no symptoms like headaches or night sweats yet.
Impact on Relationships
Turner admitted that the diagnosis weighed heavily on his decisions.
“It was like 10 tons of concrete were just dropped on me,”(Gerry Turner).
He added that his focus shifted toward spending time with his family, including his two daughters and granddaughters.
The distance between Turner’s home in Indiana and Nist’s in New Jersey was another factor in their separation. Turner emphasized his wish for Nist to have “all the good luck in the world,” fondly remembering their time together.
Raising Awareness for Waldenström’s Macroglobulinemia
Turner has plans to support the International Waldenström’s Macroglobulinemia Foundation. The cancer, a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, is slow-growing, and many patients can live for years without treatment. Turner explained that his journey began with a shoulder injury during a pickleball game, which led to tests revealing a blood disorder.
Nist, while saddened by the diagnosis, expressed confidence in Turner’s strength.
“He’s a very positive person… I have every faith that it’s going to work out”( Theresa Nist)
She also wished him a healthy and happy future.
Looking Ahead
Turner is determined to live fully, stating,
“I get the benefit of living like I’m dying!”( Theresa Nist)
He plans to enjoy every moment, pack fun into his life, and continue pursuing new adventures. While he hasn’t asked doctors about his life expectancy, he focuses on making the most of the present.
Despite their split, Turner and Nist’s relationship highlights the challenges and resilience in navigating life’s unexpected turns. Turner’s openness about his diagnosis brings awareness to the rare disease and reminds him of the importance of positivity and community support.
News in Brief: Gerry Turner Reveals Rare Cancer Diagnosis
Gerry Turner, star of The Golden Bachelor, revealed his diagnosis with Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia, a rare bone marrow cancer. Despite the challenges, he remains active, playing pickleball and focusing on family. Turner’s diagnosis influenced his decisions, including his split from Theresa Nist, while raising awareness and embracing life with optimism and resilience.
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