The medical and media communities are mourning the loss of Dr. Kelly Powers, a respected surgeon and Fox News medical contributor, who passed away at the age of 45 following a brave battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive and often fatal form of brain cancer. Known for her intelligence, warmth, and unwavering strength, Dr. Powers leaves behind a legacy that reaches far beyond her professional accomplishments. Her passing on Sunday in New Jersey marks the end of a life defined by resilience, service, and a deep commitment to helping others.
Born on May 13, 1979, in Yonkers, New York, Dr. Powers’ journey to medicine was marked by hard work and academic excellence. She earned degrees from Baruch College, the New York College of Podiatric Medicine, and the University of San Francisco. Her medical training included residencies at prestigious institutions such as Georgetown University and Boston University, where she honed her surgical skills and developed a reputation for both clinical excellence and compassionate care. She quickly became a respected figure not only in the operating room but also in the public eye.
Dr. Powers gained national recognition through her frequent appearances on Fox News, Fox Business, CNN, and CBS. She served as a trusted medical expert, helping millions make sense of complex health issues. Her communication style was clear, calm, and relatable—attributes that made her a comforting presence during public health crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic. More than just a doctor on television, she was a beacon of trust, empathy, and professionalism in a field where clear information can be lifesaving.
In 2020, while appearing on Fox News for a segment about heart health, Dr. Powers collapsed live on-air—an event that led to the shocking discovery of her brain tumor. The diagnosis of glioblastoma was devastating, but Dr. Powers met it with the same determination that had defined her entire career. She underwent three brain surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, yet continued to engage with the public and advocate for patient awareness. Remarkably, during her recovery, she gave birth to her son, Bennett, an experience she described with both humor and joy. She often joked that she and her newborn shared matching haircuts—her way of bringing light to an incredibly difficult time.
When her cancer returned in 2024, her story once again inspired an outpouring of support. Friends, colleagues, and strangers rallied to raise nearly $100,000 to help her pursue experimental treatment. Though the disease ultimately claimed her life, Dr. Powers faced every stage of her battle with grace, honesty, and an unbreakable spirit. She often called herself “the luckiest unlucky girl,” a reflection of her enduring gratitude despite the immense challenges she faced.
Dr. Powers is survived by her husband, Steven Doll, and their young son, Bennett. Her family, friends, patients, and viewers remember her not just as a brilliant surgeon or media personality, but as a kind, strong, and generous person. Visitation will be held on Thursday, and a funeral service will take place Friday at Tower Hill Church in Red Bank, New Jersey. In her memory, many will continue to draw strength from the example she set—a life lived with purpose, empathy, and courage in the face of overwhelming odds.
Dr. Kelly Powers’ story is a reminder of the incredible impact one person can have—both in their profession and in their humanity. Though her time was cut far too short, her voice, her spirit, and her dedication will continue to resonate. Her legacy lives on in the lives she saved, the people she inspired, and the son she so dearly loved.
