061112_RobinRoberts_SG_ftrGood Morning America host Robin Roberts announced on Monday June 11 that she was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), a blood disorder affecting the stem cells in the bone marrow. Find out all the details on the disease!

Robin Roberts bravely announced to the world on Monday June 11 that she has been diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome, formerly known as preleukemia. The GMA host held back tears as she held her co-hosts hands and revealed her painful secret that shes held for more than a month. MDS is a blood-related condition that involves ineffective production of the myeloid class of blood cells.It is a rare blood disorder that affects the bone marrow, she said.

Left without a transplant, the disease worsens and the patient develops low blood counts due to progressive bone marrow failure. Found mostly in patients between 60 and 75, Robin was diagnosed at the age of 51-years-old leaving her with a good prognosis.

Symptoms can involve severe anemia and require frequent blood transfusions. The mean life-expectancy is 18 to 24 months in mild cases of MDS or even longer when stem cell transplantation is done, but all cases vary.

Robin, who has experienced a series of highs and lows throughout her career, announced that her sister, Sally-Ann Roberts, would be her donor! I am blessed, Robin said because her sister is a virtually perfect bone marrow match. Thankfully,Robins doctors are optimistic of her recovery!My doctors tell me Im going to beat this and I know its true, Robin said.

Success of bone marrow transplantation has been found to correlate with severity of MDS.

Famous patients with MDS include astronomerCarl SaganandwriterRoald Dahl(James and the Giant Peach,Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,) and more.

We wish Robin the best and will be rooting for her throughout her treatments!

HollywoodLifers, do you know someone with MDS? Tell us your story below!

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Robin Roberts Diagnosed With MDS — Details on Her Disease

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