Reality television personality Joe Amabile, best known for his appearances on “The Bachelorette” and “Bachelor in Paradise,” revealed after undergoing a routine full-body health scan that doctors have uncovered an early-stage brain tumor.
He shared the medical update in a video posted to social media on July 14, explaining what began as a precautionary Prenuvo screening led to additional testing after physicians identified an abnormality.
A follow-up MRI discovered a “blueberry sized” lesion in his brain that doctors believe may be a glioma, a cancerous type of tumor that develops in the brain or spinal cord.
“This past month has been a lot of ups and downs to say the least,” Amabile, 40, captioned his Instagram video detailing the diagnosis. “After multiple scans and MRIs I have what looks to be an early stage brain tumor.
“In two weeks I’ll be undergoing a craniotomy to have it removed—yeah brain surgery,” he continued. “I’m doing my best to stay positive during this time and am lucky to have a lot of support from family and friends.
“I’ve gone back and forth about what I wanted to share on social media but ultimately this is now part of my life, so might as well,” he concluded. “On to a new journey.”
Known by fans as “Grocery Store Joe,” Amabile first gained national attention during Becca Kufrin’s season of “The Bachelorette” in 2018. His popularity from the show led to appearances on “Bachelor in Paradise,” where he met his wife, Serena Pitt, during season 7.
“I think it’s one of those things where you’re like, ‘Oh, something like this’ll never happen to me,’ and here I am,” Amabile reflected in the video. “They say it’s really early stages. I hope they are able to get it all, and I’m fine. But I will keep you updated.”
Pitt herself took to social media to express gratitude for the love and support both Amabile and the couple received since opening up about his diagnosis.
“Finding out that Joe has a brain tumor has come with so many emotions,” Pitt wrote. “It has felt very scary, overwhelming and heavy at times.
“We feel so blessed to have an amazing community who is supporting us and helping us hold onto a positive mindset throughout all of this! I truly believe Joe is going to get through this, and no matter what happens we’re going to face it together.”
