Hoda Kotb recalls her initial disbelief at being diagnosed with breast cancer: 'It can't be me'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Hoda Kotb never expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer.

The retired 'Today' host revealed the details of her diagnosis while attending the Runway for Recovery event honoring breast cancer survivors on Thursday, February 27.

Hoda Kotb never thought she could be diagnosed with breast cancer  

Hoda Kotb, now 60, was diagnosed with breast cancer 18 years ago after finding a lump. She underwent a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery in March 2007.

She has remained cancer-free since then but recalls how shocking the diagnosis was. 

“I mean, there are people who are going to get breast cancer. I didn't think I was one,” Kotb said.

She said she did everything right not to have breast cancer, which included eating well and doing regular exercise. 

"I mean, I ate apples and ran in Central Park. I was like me? When they called me, they were like, ‘Oh, it's you.’ I go, ‘It can't be me. Why would it be me?’ I've never done any of the things that would lead to this diagnosis, but yet it came,” Kotb told People about the shock she felt after being handed the diagnosis. 

Hoda Kotb says breast cancer makes you realize 'you're braver, you're more resilient'

Hoda Kotb advised those diagnosed with cancer to take their time and find a trusted doctor.

“One of the most important things to do when receiving a cancer diagnosis is to take a deep breath and slow down,” Kotb said.

She encouraged people to choose a doctor they respect and admire and to allow themselves time to process their diagnosis.

“When it comes to breast cancer, it's sort of like, get it early, get it out, and try not to be defined by it,” Kotb added.

“It can shape you, but if it defines you, then you will spend your life feeling a certain way. So it's like understanding this is part of me, but not all of me. It's going to change me, and I'll be different now," she added.

Kotb said that the diagnosis would make you realize how brave you are. “What you'll find is you're braver, you're more resilient," Kotb said.