Noting that she has been in her role for more than 22 years, Dean said in a video message posted on X, “For a long time, I was able to handle the early mornings, the many hours on my feet, and the stress of broadcasting live.”
“Getting up at 2:30 in the morning and performing anything is hard, but especially someone who has multiple sclerosis. For those living with MS, the war is inside us,” Dean added.
Dean said, “Thankfully, I was diagnosed early, and have been on different therapies for over two decades.”
She added, “There is no cure for MS. Over time my symptoms have progressed, Unfortunately lack of sleep and stress are some of the biggest triggers.”
She said that her doctors “agreed that stepping away was necessary for my health.”
Dean also contributed to Fox Weather, the free ad supported television weather service. She has also hosted a podcast, and is the author of Mostly Sunny and Make Your Own Sunshine, along with a series of children’s weather books.
She posted on X, “I know so many of you have been wondering where I’ve been. Please know I’ve read your comments, prayers and words of support and kindness. It meant the world to me. Goodbyes are hard. But they are necessary before you can meet again…”
Fox News Media said in a statement, “Throughout her 22-year career with Fox News Media, Janice Dean has inspired viewers with her warmth, resilience, and dedication.”
“Her willingness to share her personal journeys has touched countless lives and served as a source of strength and encouragement to many. We fully support Janice’s courageous decision to step away from her role as senior meteorologist on FOX & Friends and are grateful for her many contributions,” the network added in the statement.
Dean first announced late last year that she would be taking some time away to deal with her health challenges.
“I wanted to let you all know that I’m taking a break from work (and social media) for a bit. I’m ok, but I’ve had some health issues that require rest and time to heal. My bosses at Fox have been kind and understanding, and I feel blessed to be able to take a break to be with my family. The trip to Rome with Sean was a good place to start healing spiritually, and now I have to get back to feeling healthy and strong,” Dean wrote last year.
Dean, who is 55 years old, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2005.
She told others about it in 2008. Dean’s recent post didn’t specify what problems she’s having or when she’ll be back at Fox.
“I remember it was during the 2005 hurricane season because it was such an active year, and I just felt really rundown, which isn’t like me. I’m a workaholic. I’m used to working long hours. And I remember thinking that I needed to make sure I took some time off because I was just so exhausted,” Dean added at the time.
The neurological disease affects the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves — all of which make up one’s central nervous system, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
It damages the myelin sheath, the protective coating around nerve cells, which can slow or even block nerve signals, according to Mount Sinai.
There is no cure for MS, but drugs and therapy can help control symptoms and reduce the disease’s course.
