Joe Amabile Details Brain Tumor Journey, Focuses on Recovery and Future Goals

Joe Amabile, a well-known figure from The Bachelorette franchise, has shared intimate details of his recent health battle, including the discovery and successful removal of a brain tumor. Amabile, who turned 40 this year, underwent a craniotomy in September after a full-body scan revealed a lesion described as 'blueberry-sized' in his brain.

In an exclusive interview with The Daily Mail, Amabile revealed that he experienced no symptoms prior to the diagnosis. The discovery came about after his wife, Serena Pitt, encouraged him to undergo a comprehensive health scan. "We were doing a Prenuvo scan, full body scan, just to like, 'why not?', type of thing," Amabile stated. "I didn't even want to do it at first and Serena talked me into it. And I was like, I just turned forty, I should check." The experience, he described, has been "a rollercoaster ever since."

Following the diagnosis, Amabile maintained a positive outlook. "We were obviously scared and very worried," he admitted. "I'm someone that has a positive outlook in life, and I wasn't going to let this change that."

Post-Surgery Recovery

The surgery to remove the tumor was successful, with Amabile reporting, "They got it all!" However, the initial recovery was challenging. Amabile experienced light sensitivity and was on pain medication immediately after the procedure. He is still technically in recovery and expects to continue until the end of the year. His post-operative treatment includes daily medication, an IDH inhibitor intended to suppress any remaining cells, and regular MRIs every three months for the first year to monitor his condition. Amabile has not yet been officially declared in remission but is hopeful that a clean MRI at the end of November will lead to that designation.

Adapting and Moving Forward

Amabile has been making steady progress in his recovery. He recently celebrated his wedding anniversary with Pitt by dining out, marking his first restaurant visit since the surgery. He is also actively training for the New York City Marathon, though his approach has changed significantly. "I'm still training, it's just less, and it's more resting and more mobility work and stretching," he explained. Setting this goal has been important for him, providing a sense of control amidst the uncertainties of his health.

Financial Preparedness

Amabile has partnered with financial services company Northwestern Mutual, highlighting the importance of having financial affairs in order. "We're pretty good with our finances," he said. "We've had things in order and, you know, thankfully I did, because if I didn't, that would just be another stressor to add to my plate that I don't need, 'cause stress will kill you."

He participated in a goal-setting event hosted by Northwestern Mutual at Grand Central Terminal, emphasizing that while unexpected events can alter life's path, they don't have to derail one's ultimate goals. The partnership aims to help others navigate financial planning, especially when facing intimidating or daunting prospects.