Suzanne Rogers, Star of ‘Days of Our Lives,’ Faces Stage II Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis

Soap opera veteran Suzanne Rogers recently disclosed her diagnosis of Stage II colorectal cancer, a revelation that sent shockwaves through the entertainment community. The acclaimed actress, widely recognized for her portrayal of Maggie Horton on ‘Days of Our Lives’ for over half a century, shared her journey in an exclusive interview.

Unexpected Diagnosis

The 82-year-old actress reported that a sense of unease prompted her to seek medical attention, despite regularly scheduled colonoscopies. During a routine check-up, her doctor advised further examinations, including an MRI, a PET scan, and a biopsy, which ultimately confirmed her cancer diagnosis.

Reflecting on the moment she received the news, Rogers expressed her surprise and confusion. ‘I knew it was something more as soon as the doctor suggested those tests,’ she recounted. After undergoing additional procedures, the news became a reality: ‘You have cancer, and you have to start treatment.’ It left her in shock for several days, considering her commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

The Road to Treatment

Three days post the end of the ‘Days of Our Lives’ filming season in June, Rogers commenced her treatment. This involved an intensive regimen that included daily radiation and chemotherapy sessions for six weeks. ‘It was tough. Knowing I had to go in five days a week was daunting. I cherished the weekends when I didn’t have to see a doctor,’ she remarked.

A Supportive Community

During her treatment, Rogers expressed gratitude for the summer hiatus of the show. This allowed her to maintain privacy during her medical journey, alleviating the pressure to publicly discuss her diagnosis. ‘The break helped me focus on my health without the added stress of outside inquiries,’ she said.

Despite the challenges, Rogers found solace in her on-screen family. Her co-star Linsey Godfrey, who plays her daughter Sarah Horton, frequently accompanied her to the hospital. ‘Linsey sat with me during my infusions, and we enjoyed meals together, which made the difficult moments more manageable,’ she revealed.

Clarity and Connections

Rogers noted that her cancer battle prompted conversations among her colleagues, although most were unaware of her diagnosis at first. ‘At first, nobody knew. Linsey suggested that a few friends check in on me to ensure I didn’t feel alone,’ she explained.

Through regular calls and messages from her friends within the industry, she felt supported. Colleagues like Mary Beth Evans and Stephen Nichols reached out, providing encouragement and camaraderie during her treatment.

Furthermore, Rogers appreciated the show’s producers for their understanding. They reassured her that her role would be waiting when she was ready to resume. ‘They emphasized the importance of my health above all else,’ she stated.

Returning to Work and Recovery

Completing her treatment at the end of July marked a significant milestone for Rogers. ‘I’m feeling really good now,’ she shared, expressing her eagerness to return to work. However, the anticipation of getting back into character also brought a measure of anxiety. ‘Every time I get scripts, I want to give my best performance, and I don’t want to hold anyone back,’ she said.

Despite her positive outlook, Rogers admitted dealing with fatigue during her recovery. The physical toll of treatment left her questioning whether her vibrant energy would return. ‘I’m starting to feel more like myself again,’ she reassured. Although she has not yet fully regained her energy, she remains optimistic about her recovery.

Resilience through Challenges

Interestingly, Rogers avoided hair loss during treatment due to the type of chemotherapy she received. Addressing potential skepticism about her journey, she affirmed, ‘Some may doubt my experience, but I know what I’ve been through and how far I’ve come.’ Her personal struggle imparted valuable perspective, reshaping her priorities and approach to life’s challenges.

‘I’ve learned not to sweat the small stuff anymore,’ she reflected. Having faced cancer head-on, she emphasizes a newfound appreciation for life, accompanied by the unwavering support of her friends and family. ‘Their prayers and well-wishes helped me stay positive and motivated throughout this ordeal,’ she concluded.

A New Chapter Ahead

As Rogers prepares to embark on this new chapter of her career, she carries with her the lessons learned from her health journey. The impending return to ‘Days of Our Lives’ not only signifies a personal victory over cancer but also highlights the strength of community and resilience in the face of adversity.

Rogers serves as an inspiring example of how inclusivity and support from colleagues can make a profound difference. Her heartwarming journey illuminates the importance of self-care and the power of friendship, reinforcing that even amid life’s toughest challenges, the human spirit can prevail.