Dr. Kelly Powers, a highly respected surgeon and medical contributor known for her appearances on Fox News, has passed away at the age of 45 after a courageous battle with glioblastoma, one of the deadliest forms of brain cancer. Her death on Sunday in New Jersey marks the loss of a remarkable physician whose dedication to both medicine and public education touched countless lives.
Born on May 13, 1979, in Yonkers, New York, Dr. Powers built an impressive academic and professional foundation. She earned degrees from Baruch College, the New York College of Podiatric Medicine, and the University of San Francisco. Her extensive training included demanding residencies at Georgetown University and Boston University, setting the stage for a career that combined surgical excellence with an ability to communicate complex medical issues clearly to the public.
Dr. Powers became a familiar and trusted voice on national news networks, regularly contributing to Fox News, Fox Business, CNN, and CBS. Her calm, authoritative presence helped demystify medical topics for viewers, making health information accessible and engaging. Her commitment to public health education extended beyond television, reflecting her passion for empowering people through knowledge.
Her life changed dramatically in 2020 during a live broadcast segment on heart health when she suddenly collapsed on air. This alarming event led to a devastating diagnosis: glioblastoma. Dr. Powers described the moment as “unreal,” yet it marked the beginning of a grueling journey that she faced with remarkable strength and grace. Despite undergoing three brain surgeries, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, she continued to inspire those around her with her resilience.
Amid the challenges of her illness, Dr. Powers experienced a profound joy—she gave birth to her son, Bennett, during her treatment. She often lightheartedly referred to their matching haircuts, a result of her chemotherapy, calling herself “the luckiest unlucky girl.” Her ability to find humor and hope during such difficult times underscored the depth of her spirit and determination. When her cancer returned in 2024, the outpouring of support was immense. Friends, colleagues, and admirers rallied to raise nearly $100,000 to assist her in accessing experimental treatments, a testament to the deep impact she had made.
Dr. Powers is survived by her husband, Steven Doll, and their young son, Bennett. Her family described her as “a brave and beautiful soul,” whose legacy of compassion, resilience, and brilliance continues to inspire. Her contributions to medicine and public health education, combined with her personal courage, leave an enduring mark on all who knew her.
Visitation for Dr. Powers will be held on Thursday, with a funeral service scheduled for Friday at Tower Hill Church in Red Bank, New Jersey. Though her life was tragically cut short, Dr. Powers’ legacy of dedication, knowledge-sharing, and unwavering strength will live on, reminding us of the power of grace in the face of adversity.