Vicki Gunvalson, a former star of "The Real Housewives of Orange County," has publicly defended her castmate Jeana Keough, who is currently undergoing treatment for tongue cancer and has launched a GoFundMe to assist with personal expenses. The fundraising effort has faced criticism from some fans who perceive Keough as wealthy.
Gunvalson addressed the backlash on SiriusXM's Jeff Lewis Live, asserting that Keough's financial standing is not as substantial as many believe. Keough, 70, was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue and has been unable to work due to her treatment, which includes chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy.
Financial Details and Support
Keough's daughter, Kara Bosworth, initiated the GoFundMe on July 19, stating that any funds raised would be used for "expenses, everyday living costs, nutrition, and the additional support she needs while undergoing treatment." The initial fundraising goal of $50,000 was increased to $90,000 after receiving numerous donations. As of recent reports, the campaign had surpassed $70,000.
Gunvalson explained that Keough owns two houses in Florida, which she purchased after selling a neighboring property. However, Gunvalson noted that these properties do not hold significant equity and that real estate values in Florida have declined. Keough also receives a small pension from her ex-husband, Matt Keough, and social security benefits, which Gunvalson stated are insufficient to cover her rent in Coto de Caza, where she rents a home, and her general living expenses.
Keough's medical care is reportedly covered, but the GoFundMe is intended to alleviate the financial burden of non-medical expenses incurred during her inability to work as a commission-based realtor. Bosworth confirmed on the GoFundMe page that the ailment has left her mother "unable to work," creating a "significant financial burden" as she focuses on healing.
Health Update and Treatment
Bosworth has provided updates on her mother's condition, noting that Keough has been experiencing significant pain and difficulty with nutrition and hydration due to the cancer and its treatment. She has been unable to speak and has required a feeding tube, a PEG tube, to receive adequate nutrition after being unable to eat or drink for two weeks. The placement of the feeding tube was temporarily delayed due to a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) blood clot discovered in her leg.
Following the procedure for the feeding tube, Keough has been recovering and managing her treatment. Bosworth described her mother as "exhausted" and "malnourished" but "finally feeling a little more like herself" after receiving care. Despite ongoing weakness and limited mobility, the family remains hopeful that Keough will regain strength as she is now able to receive the necessary nutrition.
Keough, a founding cast member of "The Real Housewives of Orange County," appeared in the first five seasons of the show and has made sporadic guest appearances in subsequent seasons. She recently filmed a cameo for the show's 20th season, which is currently airing.