Robin Roberts Explains Sudden Absence on Good Morning America

Cohost was there and then she wasn't, with Josh Elliott joking that they had "let her go about halfway through"

By Natalie Finn Aug 02, 2012 1:46 AMTags
Robin RobertsABC/Ida Mae Astute

Robin Roberts had said she would be taking a leave of absence from Good Morning America later this summer. But no one expected it to start midshow!

That's why it was little startling to be watching Roberts on GMA yesterday and then...not, with news anchor Josh Elliott saying after a commercial break about 30 minutes before show's end that they had "decided to let Robin go about halfway through."

Her sudden absence sparked some concern that Roberts, who is battling the blood disease myelodysplastic syndrome and will be having a bone marrow transplant at the end of the month, had fallen ill.

Roberts took to Facebook today to dispel rumors that she had taken an early medical leave—but that doesn't mean she had planned on taking a half day.

"What a difference a day makes...feeling MUCH better," she wrote this evening. "I guess all the pre-treatment for MDS finally caught up with me on Tuesday. Had to delay the start of my much needed vacation but have been given the green light to travel tomorrow. Looking forward to seeing my West Coast friends and then my family in MS as mom continues to recover from a health setback. We appreciate all the prayers and well wishes...the same to you.

"Despite what you may have read elsewhere this is not my medical leave...just good ole fashion vacay! R&R is ready for a little R&R. Thanks again for the love and support. Blessings to all...XO."

In that case, we wish her safe, healthy and happy travels!