Vanessa Trump, the ex-wife of Donald Trump Jr., announced on Wednesday that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer. In a personal health update shared on Instagram, the 46-year-old former model and television personality confirmed the news, stating she is working closely with her medical team on a treatment plan.
“I’ve recently been diagnosed with breast cancer,” Trump wrote. “While this isn’t news anyone expects, I’m working closely with my medical team on a treatment plan.” She added that she underwent a medical procedure earlier this week and is focused on her recovery.
Trump expressed her gratitude for the care she is receiving, saying, “I am staying focused and hopeful while surrounded by the love and support of my family, my kids, and those closest to me.” She also thanked supporters for their “kindness and support,” which she said “truly means more than I can express,” while requesting privacy as she focuses on her health.
The announcement drew a wave of support from both the Trump family and the public. Her daughter, Kai Trump, called her the “strongest person I know” in an Instagram story. Ivanka Trump, the president’s daughter, also offered well wishes, commenting on the post: “Praying for your continued strength and a swift recovery. Love you mama.”
Vanessa Trump was married to Donald Trump Jr. for 13 years before their separation in 2019. The couple shares five children. She is currently dating professional golfer Tiger Woods.
This personal health disclosure comes amid a broader political landscape where the Trump family remains a focal point. Meanwhile, the president continues to face legal and political battles, including a recent lawsuit from a former Capitol officer seeking to block a $1.78 billion fund linked to January 6 claims. In another development, Trump’s backing of Ken Paxton in the Texas Senate runoff has sparked optimism among Democrats about potential vulnerabilities in deep-red states.
Trump’s diagnosis also highlights ongoing healthcare challenges that intersect with public figures’ lives. While her statement did not specify the stage of cancer or further details of her prognosis, she emphasized her determination to fight the disease with the support of her medical team and loved ones.
The former couple’s children, including Kai Trump, have been a central part of Vanessa Trump’s life. Her request for privacy underscores the difficulty of navigating a serious illness under the glare of public scrutiny, especially given her family’s prominent political connections. As she begins her treatment, supporters across the political spectrum have urged respect for her privacy.
