Jeana Keough, an original cast member of Bravo's "The Real Housewives of Orange County," is facing criticism for launching a GoFundMe campaign to cover personal expenses during her battle with tongue cancer. The fundraising effort, started by her daughter Kara Bosworth on July 19, has already surpassed its initial goal and raised over $70,000.
Fans of the reality series, which typically portrays affluent women, have questioned Keough's financial situation, given her perceived wealth. However, former castmate Vicki Gunvalson has defended Keough, stating that her financial reality is not as robust as some believe.
"Jeana owns two houses in Florida," Gunvalson explained on SiriusXM's Jeff Lewis Live. "When she sold the house next to me she bought two houses, rental property. It doesn't have a lot of equity, the real estate in Florida has gone down." Gunvalson added that Keough receives a small pension from her ex-husband, Matt Keough, and Social Security benefits, which she stated are insufficient to cover her rent in Coto de Caza and her lifestyle.
Keough, 70, a commission-based realtor, has been unable to work while undergoing treatment, which has halted her income. Gunvalson clarified that Keough's medical care is covered, and the GoFundMe is intended to assist with daily living costs.
Keough's daughter, Kara Bosworth, stated on the GoFundMe page that funds raised will go toward "expenses, everyday living costs, nutrition, and the additional support she needs while undergoing treatment." The fundraising goal was later increased to $90,000, with donations coming from fans and fellow Bravo stars, including a $5,000 contribution from "Andrew Cohen" and $1,000 from newcomer Carmella Garcia.
Bosworth addressed the online backlash in a statement, acknowledging the hateful comments but asserting that the GoFundMe was initiated by reaching out to her "village" of people who wanted to help. She noted that while many responses have been supportive, there are also detractors.
Keough, who was a full-time cast member for the first five seasons of "The Real Housewives of Orange County," is also set to make a cameo appearance in the show's upcoming 20th season.
Bosworth detailed her mother's health journey, explaining that Keough had complained of a painful spot on her tongue for nearly a year before being diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma. She has undergone surgeries to remove the cancer and lymph nodes, followed by chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. The treatment has left Keough exhausted and malnourished, making it difficult to eat or drink.
Complications, including a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) blood clot, have further impacted her treatment. Keough recently had a PEG feeding tube placed to help her receive necessary nutrition. While recovering from the procedure and managing setbacks, Bosworth expressed that her mother is beginning to feel more like herself, though still weak and with limited mobility. She thanked those offering support, prayers, and kindness during this challenging time.