Gerry Turner, star of The Golden Bachelor, has revealed that he has been diagnosed with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, a rare and incurable form of bone marrow cancer. The 72-year-old shared the news in a recent People interview, explaining how the diagnosis has shaped his life, including his decision to end his marriage to Theresa Nist, whom he wed during a live television broadcast in January 2024.
Understanding Gerry Turner’s Diagnosis
Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that affects white blood cells, turning some into cancer cells that accumulate in the bone marrow.
- Symptoms: The disease progresses slowly and may remain asymptomatic for years. When symptoms do appear, they include fatigue, weight loss, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and vision changes.
- Treatment: Options include chemotherapy, plasma exchange, bone marrow transplants, and observation.
Turner said he initially sought medical advice for an old shoulder injury, leading to blood tests that revealed unusual markers. A bone marrow biopsy confirmed the diagnosis.
“It was like 10 tons of concrete were just dropped on me,” he said, admitting he initially struggled to accept the reality of his illness.
Impact on His Marriage
Turner acknowledged that his diagnosis played a significant role in his divorce from Nist, whom he met and married on The Golden Bachelor.
- The couple, who lived in separate states (Indiana and New Jersey), were navigating where to settle when Turner received his diagnosis.
- Turner shared that he prioritized staying close to his family—his two daughters, sons-in-law, and granddaughters—over relocating.
“When you are hit with that kind of news… you realize what’s important to you,” Turner explained.
Despite calling their time together a “cherished memory,” he said, “I wanted my life to continue on as normal as possible,” which led to the couple parting ways.
Theresa Nist’s Perspective
Nist, however, said the cancer diagnosis was not a factor in their split—at least not for her.
- She cited distance as one issue but added that there were other reasons, noting, “You really can’t know somebody in four weeks.”
- While wishing Turner the best, she expressed confidence in his ability to manage his condition and live a long, healthy life.
Moving Forward
Turner hopes that sharing his diagnosis will provide clarity about his decisions and inspire others to focus on what truly matters in life. “I hope that people understand… that [the diagnosis] had a huge bearing on my decisions and, I think, probably Theresa’s as well,” he said.
Nist echoed similar sentiments, expressing faith in Turner’s resilience and optimism. “He’s a very positive person,” she said. “I know that good things will come to him.”
