Hoda Kotb has been a familiar face on our screens for years. But earlier this year, the longtime Today Show co-host surprised many when she quietly stepped away from the show. Now, for the first time, she’s opening up about why.
It’s not about ratings or contracts. It’s about something much more personal — her daughter’s health.
Her Daughter Hope Was Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes
On her first return to the Today studio as a guest, Hoda shared the emotional news. Her youngest daughter, Hope, who is just 6 years old, was recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.
That diagnosis was life-changing.
Hoda said she couldn’t fully focus on work anymore. Her mind was always on Hope. “You’re constantly watching, you’re constantly monitoring, you’re constantly checking,” she explained.
And that’s something every parent of a child with type 1 diabetes can understand.
Family Became Her Top Priority
Hoda has two daughters — Hope, 6, and Haley, 8. She said she wanted more time with both of them, especially after Hope’s diagnosis.
She realized something had to change. “You just get a priority check in your life,” she told her former co-hosts Savannah Guthrie and Craig Melvin.
She could either stay on set and stress about her daughter from a distance, or she could be home and feel peace knowing she’s close.
Hope Is Doing Well Most of the Time
Hoda explained that while type 1 diabetes requires careful attention, it doesn’t define Hope’s life.
“She’s fine for most of the day,” she said. She broke it down simply. Maybe five minutes at breakfast. Five at lunch. Five at dinner. A few minutes overnight.
That adds up to about 30 minutes. “For 23 and a half hours, she’s like every other kid,” Hoda said.
That reminder helps her stay grounded and hopeful.
What Is Type 1 Diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. It happens when the body’s immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Without insulin, blood sugar can’t be controlled.
Hope needs regular insulin and constant blood sugar monitoring. And while that sounds intense, kids with type 1 diabetes can still live full and joyful lives — with the right support.
This condition is different from type 2 diabetes. Type 1 is more common in kids and young adults. It isn’t caused by diet or lifestyle. It’s something that just happens.
It All Started With Flu-Like Symptoms
Hoda said Hope’s early symptoms looked like the flu. Things got serious quickly. She had to be rushed to the hospital.
It was a scary time. But now, with a diagnosis and a treatment plan, Hoda is helping Hope adjust and thrive.
Letting Kids Be Kids
One of the most important things Hoda has learned is not to let fear take over. She wants Hope to feel like any other child.
“Don’t put your worry on your kid,” she said.
She watches closely, yes. But she also gives Hope the freedom to be herself.
“Let them be kids and give them what they need when they need it.”
Those are simple words. But for parents of kids with chronic conditions, they carry a lot of weight.
Hoda’s Choice Was About Love
Walking away from the Today Show wasn’t easy. But for Hoda, it was the right decision.
She chose presence over pressure. She chose her kids.
And in doing so, she reminded all of us what really matters.
