Jeannie Mai is "recovering safely" after undergoing emergency surgery.
Jeannie Mai (c) Instagram/Jeannie Mai
The TV presenter had to quit 'Dancing with the Stars' this week due to being admitted to hospital for the operation, after she was diagnosed with epiglottis - a potentially life-threatening condition that can cause swelling and block airflow to the lungs - and she is grateful to her surgeon after the op was a success.
In a caption attached to a picture of Jeannie lying in her hospital bed, she wrote on Instagram: "I would never imagine ever having to write this, but I made it safely out of my emergency surgery. I will be forever grateful to Dr. Nasseri who identified my potentially life-threatening condition. What simply started as a sore throat had unbeknownst to me become a dangerous infection that already closed at least 60% of my airway and resulted in a throat abscess that spread in a matter of 3 days. (sic)"
While the 41-year-old star is glad to be on the mend after going under the knife, she feels "devastated" that her time on the dancing show is over.
She added: "Although I am grateful to be recovering safely, I can't lie... I am devastated by the fact that my journey with #DWTS will end this way. Dancing on this show has been the most exhilarating adventure. I've gained both beautiful friendships and loving supporters. To my partner, @Brandonarmstrong, I’m sorry you don't get to make fun of my moves anymore while I share my life gems on how to be a grown up. Love u so much lil bro, and will ALWAYS cherish the memories we made!!! And more good news? My thumbs still work hunnay, so I can spread my 20 votes across these final 8 superstar teams!!! Please everyone, TONIGHT watch for your fave #DWTS couple killen it in the ballroom cuz #TeamDreamofJeannie, we gotta share our love and VOTE!!!
#TeamReachForTheSkai
#TeamSellingIt
#TeamLOCOmotion
#TeamBriJo
#TeamWillYouAcceptThisDance
#TeamPrettyMessedUp
#TeamBeNeevers
#TeamDaNelly LEGGGGGO (sic)"
Jeannie's professional partner Brandon Armstrong wrote: "Listen here my little Gus Gus! There is no other fainting goat I would have rather had this experience with! (sic)"
'Dancing with the Stars' said in a statement: "Jeannie has inspired us, along with millions of fans, with her energy and dedication. We wish her a full and speedy recovery."
Monday's (02.11.20) episode of the show had been due to feature a double elimination but just one couple, Selling Sunset's Chrishell Stause and her pro partner Gleb Savchenko, were eliminated.