Kai Trump, 19, has spoken about the emotional challenges of her mother Vanessa Trump's recent breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, particularly in the weeks leading up to her own departure for college. Vanessa Trump revealed her diagnosis in May and has since undergone surgery and is progressing through further treatment stages.
"It was emotional, there was a lot of crying in the week leading up [to me leaving for school]," Kai told Fox News. "[Me and my mom] would just be driving and we would just start crying together." Kai is now attending The University of Miami, noting that her proximity to home in Palm Beach allows for visits from her mother.
Kai described the experience as a "blessing in disguise," as it allowed her to spend additional time with her mother. "I was very lucky to spend a lot of time with her over the summer, because of cancer and going to treatments with her," Kai said. "It was a blessing in disguise, because I was able to spend extra time with her that I would normally probably spend on the golf course."
Regarding her mother's health, Kai stated, "My mom, she’s doing a lot better." She added that Vanessa was unwell immediately following treatment but is now improving. Vanessa Trump, who was previously married to Donald Trump Jr. from 2005 to 2018, shares five children, including Kai.
Vanessa Trump initially shared her diagnosis on Instagram in May, stating she had undergone a "procedure" and was working with her medical team on a treatment plan. In June, she provided an update indicating she was recovering from surgery and preparing for the second stage of her treatment.
Kai also commented on her relationship with her mother's boyfriend, golfer Tiger Woods, whom she has cited as an inspiration. During an appearance at the 2026 ESPY Awards in July, Kai referred to Woods as a significant influence on her personal growth and golf game, stating he told her to "keep being you and live life."