Al Roker Credits Smartwatch for Life-Saving Health Warning: A Shocking Discovery That Changed Everything!
Al Roker Reveals How His Smartwatch Alerted Him to a Serious Health Issue
More than a year after a major health crisis sidelined TODAY weatherman Al Roker, he is now opening up about the unexpected warning that prompted him to seek medical help—his smartwatch.
During a TODAY segment on July 25, 2024, Roker shared that his smartwatch played a critical role in detecting his health issue early. The discussion arose when Peloton producer Jessie Malone, 35, described how her Apple Watch notified her of atrial fibrillation symptoms.
The Unexpected Sign That Sparked Concern
“We have something in common,” Roker told Malone. “About a year and a half ago, I had a health scare, and the first sign was when I was walking up the stairs—my watch showed my heart rate at 160 beats per minute,” he recalled.
Recognizing that something wasn’t right, Roker took immediate action. “I called my doctor and was able to address it,” he explained.
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A Rapidly Escalating Medical Emergency
The next day, Roker began experiencing severe symptoms, including vomiting and intense pain. Initially, doctors suspected an intestinal infection, but further tests revealed the real cause—blood clots that had traveled from his leg to his lungs.
Hospitalized for extensive treatment, Roker described the ordeal as “medical whack-a-mole.” Doctors also found two bleeding ulcers, requiring a complex seven-hour surgery. The procedure included a partial colon resection, gallbladder removal, and reconstruction of his small intestine.
Stepping Away and Recovering
Roker’s health struggles forced him to step back from his duties on the TODAY show. He also had to miss the Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting in 2022, events he traditionally hosted.
Looking back, Roker acknowledged that his recovery was challenging, particularly given his age and the severity of his condition. However, his positive attitude kept him motivated.
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Moving Forward with Optimism
“I thought, what else can I do? I just focused on getting better, and here we are a year later,” Roker reflected. “I’m not someone who dwells on the past—I prefer to look ahead.”
His experience underscores the potential life-saving role of wearable health technology. A simple smartwatch alert prompted action that may have saved his life.
Do you think wearable technology is essential for health monitoring? Share your thoughts in the comments!
