Fox Carolina Anchor Tori Carmen Shares Cancer Journey in People Magazine

Carmen's brain tumor diagnosis, treatment, and return to the news desk inspire hope and resilience.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 9:06am

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Fox Carolina news anchor Tori Carmen, 38, was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumor in 2025. After a terrifying medical emergency, emergency surgery, and targeted radiation treatment, Carmen has returned to the anchor desk, sharing her story of resilience and the importance of self-care.

Why it matters

Carmen's story highlights the challenges faced by media personalities when dealing with serious health issues, as well as the power of community support and a positive outlook during difficult times. Her willingness to be open about her cancer journey can inspire others facing similar diagnoses.

The details

In February 2025, Carmen experienced a seizure and was rushed to the hospital, where she was diagnosed with a benign brain mass. After undergoing a "textbook" craniotomy procedure, further testing revealed Carmen had a rare, malignant grade 3 meningioma brain tumor. She opted for targeted gamma knife radiation treatment, which was completed in May 2025. Carmen returned to the Fox Carolina news desk in July, working a reduced schedule to focus on her health and recovery.

  • On February 28, 2025, Carmen experienced a seizure and was rushed to the hospital.
  • On March 11, 2025, Carmen and her fiancé Jermey Holt were married before her surgery.
  • On April 1, 2025, Carmen underwent a craniotomy procedure in Chicago to remove the brain mass.
  • On May 30, 2025, Carmen completed her gamma knife radiation treatment.
  • In early June 2025, Carmen and Holt returned to their home in Greenville, South Carolina.

The players

Tori Carmen

A 38-year-old news anchor for Fox Carolina who was diagnosed with a rare, malignant brain tumor in 2025.

Jermey Holt

Carmen's fiancé, a public information officer with the Greenville County Sheriff's Office, who married Carmen before her surgery.

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What they’re saying

“I had a seizure. My whole right side locked up. I couldn't move my leg. My fiancé, Jeremy Holt, woke and asked, 'What's going on?' I couldn't even speak. I was in so much pain. I couldn't scream anymore. I just fell into darkness. It was like a black hole taking me under. I thought I was dying.”

— Tori Carmen, Fox Carolina News Anchor

“You lost consciousness. I was doing everything in my power to try to revive you...and you were limp.”

— Jermey Holt, Carmen's Fiancé

“Both of us wanted to make that commitment clear and official. A sign of our love for each other, no matter what happens.”

— Tori Carmen, Fox Carolina News Anchor

What’s next

Carmen and Holt plan to celebrate their wedding in May 2026 and are looking forward to growing their family.

The takeaway

Carmen's story of resilience in the face of a devastating cancer diagnosis serves as an inspiration to others facing serious health challenges. Her willingness to be open about her journey can help raise awareness and encourage people to prioritize their health and seek medical care when something feels off.