Dancing With The Stars contestant Jeannie Mai, 41, has DROPPED OUT of the competition after being hospitalized with epiglottis
- The 41-year-old TV host was hospitalized with epiglottis, which blocks airflow to the lungs
- ‘My doctors discovered a health concern with my throat which requires immediate attention and surgery,’ she said to GMA
- ‘I am heartbroken that my DWTS journey has to end here,’ added the star
Dancing With The Stars contestant Jeannie Mai has dropped out of the competition.
The 41-year-old TV host was hospitalized with epiglottis, which blocks airflow to the lungs, ABC reported on Monday.
‘My doctors discovered a health concern with my throat which requires immediate attention and surgery,’ she said in a statement to Good Morning America. ‘I am heartbroken that my DWTS journey has to end here.’
Out! Dancing With The Stars contestant Jeannie Mai has dropped out of the competition. Seen in late October
On her way to practice: The star seen on her way to rehearsal on October 27 in LA
She added, ‘I have pushed myself to new limits physically and mentally, and I am so proud of how far we’ve come.’
Her partner on the dance floor was Brandon Armstrong.
‘Jeannie has inspired us, along with millions of fans, with her energy and dedication, Dancing With The Stars said in a statement.
‘We wish her a full and speedy recovery. Since Jeannie had to withdraw from the competition, tonight’s show will feature the eight remaining couples and a single elimination.’
Her dancing half: Her partner on the dance floor was Brandon Armstrong. ‘Jeannie has inspired us, along with millions of fans, with her energy and dedication,’ said the show in a statement
According to the Mayo Clinic, Epiglottitis is a potentially life-threatening condition.
It happens when the epiglottis — a small cartilage ‘lid’ that covers the windpipe — swells, blocking the flow of air into the lungs, the site stated.
‘A number of factors can cause the epiglottis to swell — burns from hot liquids, direct injury to your throat and various infections,’ the clinic explained.
The most common cause of epiglottitis in children in the past was ‘infection with Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), the same bacterium that causes pneumonia, meningitis and infections in the bloodstream.’
But Epiglottitis can happen at any age.
Routine Hib vaccination for infants has made epiglottitis rare, but the condition remains a concern, it was added.
Scary times: According to the Mayo Clinic, Epiglottitis is a potentially life-threatening condition. Seen with Brandon on October 19