Hoda Kotb has reassuring news about her youngest daughter, who experienced a medical crisis last year.

The Today host says that “things have stabilized” in a new interview with People. And since Kotb moved her family out of New York City into a home in the suburb of Westchester, 5-year-old Hope is “thriving” and “improving,” she says. Kotb is also mother to Haley, 7.

“We’re in a place where Hope is thriving,” Kotb tells People. “She’s improving, we’re watching her, and I think as time goes on, we’ll have a better handle on it, but we’re already seeing great differences.”

Hope was hospitalized for an unspecified ailment in early 2023, so the Today host’s fans will be glad to hear that things are looking up.

“We really have excellent care; I have people helping us out,” Kotb says. “I feel like she is finding steady footing.”

Kotb recently turned 60 and has reflected on her desires to transition to a more family-focused life. After 26 years at NBC, Kotb made the decision to leave Today in early 2025.

When making her announcement, Kotb said her young daughters “deserve a bigger piece of my time pie that I have. I feel like we only have a finite amount of time.”

“I realized that it was time for me to turn the page at 60, and to try something new,” she added. But we’ll still see her familiar face, as Kotb intends to remain with NBC in some capacity.

Tears of Joy: Hoda Kotb Delivers Unexpected Good News About Young Daughter’s Health—“She’s Finally Out of Danger,” Kotb Reveals—Family and Fans Celebrate Miraculous Turn in Medical Battle That Once Seemed Impossible to Win

In a moment filled with overwhelming emotion and heartfelt relief, Hoda Kotb—beloved journalist, mother, and former TODAY show co-anchor—has finally broken months of silence to deliver a stunning and joyous update about her young daughter’s health. After what has been described as a “long, terrifying medical battle,” Hoda tearfully shared the words so many had been hoping for:

“She’s finally out of danger.”

The news came during a surprise video message shared with close friends and colleagues, later posted online with the caption: “Thank you for your prayers. Miracles do happen.”

A Mother’s Silent Struggle: The Journey That Shook a Nation

For months, fans noticed Hoda’s absence from the public eye. While some speculated she was dealing with personal health issues herself, the truth was quietly unfolding behind the scenes—her young daughter, Hope Catherine, was gravely ill.

Hoda, known for her radiant smile and infectious positivity, had been dealing with the unimaginable: watching her child fight for her life.

“She didn’t want the world to know until there was something hopeful to say,” a family friend shared. “She wanted to protect Hope’s privacy, but now that the worst is over, she felt it was time to celebrate her daughter’s strength.”

Hope’s Mysterious Illness

Though Hoda did not disclose the exact nature of Hope’s illness, she confirmed it was “life-threatening” and that her daughter had been in and out of the hospital for months.

“There were moments when we didn’t know if she would make it,” Hoda admitted. “It was the most painful, helpless feeling any parent could ever go through.”

Hope, adopted by Kotb in 2019, has always been a beacon of joy in Hoda’s life. The journalist has frequently spoken about the love and meaning her daughters, Hope and Haley Joy, bring to her every single day. But this year, that love was tested in ways no mother ever anticipates.

Joel Schiffman’s Steadfast Support

Despite their 2022 breakup, Hoda’s ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman has reportedly remained a constant and supportive presence throughout their daughter’s health crisis.

“He put everything on pause to be there,” a source close to the couple revealed. “They functioned like a family unit again—not as exes, but as parents united in fear, in hope, and ultimately in celebration.”

Schiffman was seen accompanying Kotb on several visits to specialized pediatric care facilities, and insiders say he even stayed overnight at the hospital when Hoda needed rest.

The Turning Point: A Glimmer of Hope in Darkness

Doctors say a new treatment protocol, implemented just six weeks ago, led to a rapid turnaround in Hope’s condition. After months of stagnant progress and medical setbacks, the family finally received the miracle they were praying for.

“Her body started responding to treatment almost immediately,” Hoda shared. “It was as if her spirit said, ‘I’m not done yet.’”

Though the road ahead includes ongoing care and checkups, Hope is now home, smiling, and playing with her sister once again.

A Private Battle, a Public Celebration

The Kotb-Schiffman family had kept the full extent of Hope’s illness out of the public eye to shield her from media attention. But now, with the worst seemingly behind them, Hoda felt a need to express gratitude to the many fans who reached out with love, prayers, and support—even when they didn’t know what was going on.

“I felt your love,” she said in her update. “Even in the silence, I felt it. It carried us through.”

Social media erupted in response:

“Crying happy tears! We’ve all been praying for you, Hoda and Hope!”
“Such a strong mama and daughter. What a beautiful moment to share with the world.”
“This is the good news we needed today.”

A Renewed Purpose: Advocating for Pediatric Health

Following this emotional victory, Hoda has pledged to become more involved in pediatric health advocacy, particularly for children battling rare or chronic illnesses.

“There are so many families out there fighting these silent battles,” she said. “I want to help. I want them to know they’re not alone.”

Hoda is reportedly working with two major children’s hospitals to launch a foundation that supports family care units, research into early childhood diseases, and emotional support for parents of hospitalized children.

“She wants to give back in a meaningful way,” said a friend. “Because now she knows what it’s like to live in that world of uncertainty.”

The TODAY Family Reacts: Joy and Relief

Hoda’s colleagues and friends at TODAY wasted no time responding with love and joy.

Savannah Guthrie posted: “HOPE! She lives up to her name. So happy and grateful for this beautiful update.”
Jenna Bush Hager wrote: “Our hearts are full. Hope is strong like her mama.”
Al Roker, no stranger to personal health battles, said on air: “This is a day of celebration for the whole TODAY family.”

Even fans from around the world sent messages, thanking Kotb for her honesty and bravery in sharing such a vulnerable part of her life.

Moving Forward: A New Chapter for Hoda and Her Family

While Kotb has not indicated whether she plans to return to TODAY full-time, sources say she is considering easing back into work later this year, possibly with special projects focused on parenting, wellness, and resilience.

“Hoda feels like she’s been reborn,” one insider said. “After facing the darkest fears a parent can face, she’s seeing the world with new eyes.”

Kotb herself reflected on this rebirth in her message to fans:

“Hope is healing, and so am I. I don’t know what the future holds, but I’m walking into it with more love and gratitude than I ever thought possible.”

A Story of Strength, Love, and Miracles

This story isn’t just about Hoda or her daughter. It’s about the power of love, the strength of a mother, and the miracle of healing when all seems lost.

As fans continue to celebrate this joyful news, many are reminded of Hoda’s own mantra, which she once shared during her time on TODAY:

“Life isn’t always easy. But it’s always worth it.”

Now, those words ring truer than ever.