Popular Love Radio DJ Nicole Hyala shared on Saturday, July 19, that she underwent surgery for thyroid cancer, just weeks after revealing her diagnosis to the public.
In a heartfelt and humorous social media post, the well-loved radio personality, known off-air as Emmylou Gaite-Tiñana, expressed gratitude to her doctors and supporters.
“As a competitive person, ginalingan ko nung surgery. Pero mas ginalingan ng aking team of doctors and nurses!,” she wrote on her Instagram post.
Known for her energetic presence and signature contagious laughter on her radio program, she surprised many on June 23, 2025, when she publicly revealed on-air that she had been diagnosed with thyroid cancer.
The announcement came with a mix of courage, resilience and emotion, as she admitted how difficult it was to break the news to her loyal listeners.
The usually bubbly DJ showed a softer side, proving that even those who make people laugh for a living carry silent battles of their own.
On Saturday, Nicole Hyala shared a photo of herself in a hospital gown on social media, offering a candid glimpse into her recovery journey, just hours after her surgery.
In her caption, she didn’t just document the brave battle journey but celebrated the extraordinary people who helped her through it.
She credited her smooth surgery and recovery to the expertise and compassion of her entire medical team. Nicole gave a special mention to ENT surgeon Dr. Joseph Cedeño, whom she described as the “best in the field,” and to endocrinologist Dr. Bam Rodriguez-Asuncion, whom she humorously referred to as her “new BFF” due to the long-term monitoring ahead.
The radio host also expressed appreciation for her anesthesiologist, who gently reminded her to think happy thoughts and pray before she was put under. Her cardiologist, Dr. Neri was also thanked for helping her prepare for the procedure. And in true Nicole fashion, she didn’t forget to joke about aesthetics, playfully telling Dr. Pao Asuncion to take care of her surgical scar.
“[I]kaw na bahala. :) Usapan natin, bawal pumanget,” the post said.
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Blending humor with heartfelt gratitude, Nicole’s message was as candid as it was inspiring. Her ability to laugh even while feeling the effects of surgery, has made her journey one not only of recovery but of strength and resilience.
“Salamat Panginoon for guiding the Medical team. Salamat sa inyong mga dasal! :) Medyo bangag pa ako pero ano bang bago, lagi naman akong bangag. Hahahahaha!”
Her story is a reminder that behind the laughter we hear on the radio are real people quietly fighting their own real battles.
Nicole Hyala’s openness, gratitude, and trademark humor in the face of illness have only deepened her bond with fans, showing that even in sickness, her light shines just as brightly.
“To God be the glory!” she concluded in her post—humble, grateful, and still radiating the same energy that earned her a place in the hearts of millions.
As she continues her recovery and begins lifelong monitoring, one thing remains constant: Nicole Hyala still shines behind the mic—now not just as a beloved radio DJ, but as a true #ThyroidCancerWarrior, with deeper strength and a louder message of hope.
