A couple of months ago, we brought you the news that former American Idol season 7 alum, fashion designer, and plus size model Joanne Borgella was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. Joanne recorded a video announcing the news and posted it on her Facebook and Twitter feeds. Now, several months later, Joanne is still fighting hard and keeping her friends, family, and fans updated on her fight against the deadly disease.
Joanne Borgella made it into the Top 24 on American Idol season 7 and was a big fan favorite to many viewers. After she was eliminated from the show, she continued to sing, but became even more known for her career as a plus size model signed with the prestigious Wilhelmina Models agency. Joanne has traveled the world, appeared in numerous fashion campaigns, and even has her own beautiful designer line of clothing at JBNYOnline.com.
Back on October 12, Joanne posted a video announcement saying she had be diagnosed with cancer and was undergoing chemotherapy. “It’s been crazy. It’s very unexpected,” she says in the video. “I’m 31-years old. I go to the doctor and got my checkups.”
“It’s a rare case because it’s spread to my chest,” Joanne continued, “but it’s really not about a stage [of disease]. God is with me and I feel his presence every day. I just wanted to share this information with everyone to let them know what I’m going through and I’m going to update everyone every week as much as I can.”
In December, Joanne updated fans with another video message saying she was undergoing her fourth round of chemotherapy. She also said she was “amazed” to share the results of her latest CAT scan, which revealed the tumors in her chest doctors said would never vanish, were 90 percent gone. She believes her faith in God has gotten her through and will keep her strong no matter what. Joanne still has a long way to go, but the news is positive so far, and we hope soon she will win her fight!
As she goes through her latest chemo cycle, Joanne is continuing to keep it positive and enjoy life to the fullest as much as she can. If you’d like to keep up with how she is doing and send her your well wishes, you can visit her Facebook page or her website at JoanneBorgella.com.