Vanessa Trump, the former model and ex-wife of Donald Trump Jr., announced on Instagram on May 20 that she has been diagnosed with cancer, saying she’s working with her medical team on a treatment plan and recently underwent a medical procedure. Her family and
Vanessa Trump stepped onto Instagram on May 20 with a message that didn’t sound like a headline—just a clear update, shared with her supporters and her doctors in the same breath.
The former model and ex-wife of Donald Trump Jr. said she has been diagnosed with b***** cancer. In a statement posted to the social media platform, Vanessa wrote, “While this isn’t news anyone expects, I’m working closely with my medical team on a treatment plan.”
She also said she had undergone a medical procedure just days before the announcement came. “I would like to thank my doctors for performing a procedure earlier this week on me. I am staying focused and hopeful. ” she wrote. adding that she’s “kindly” requesting privacy as she focuses on her health and recovery.
“Thank you for your kindness and support it truly means more than I can express. I kindly ask for privacy as I focus on my health and recovery,” Vanessa concluded.
Vanessa Trump has five children: Kai, Donald John III, Tristan, Spencer and Chloe.
Her update quickly drew messages from people close to her. Her eldest daughter, Kai Trump, wrote, “Love you! Strongest person ever.” Her former sister-in-law Ivanka Trump responded with prayers for Vanessa’s strength and speedy recovery, adding, “Love you mama.”
The announcement lands at a moment when Vanessa is also tied to a high-profile relationship. She is currently dating pro golfer Tiger Woods. The couple first sparked dating rumors in early March 2025 and confirmed later that month, going Instagram-official. Posting two photos of himself alongside Vanessa. Woods wrote: “Love is in the air and life is better with you by my side!. We look forward to our journey through life together. At this time we would appreciate privacy for all those close to our hearts.”.
Before her marriage to Don Jr. Vanessa rose to fame as a model and briefly appeared in 2003’s Something’s Gotta Give. credited as Vanessa Haydon. She married Donald Trump Jr. in 2005. The couple welcomed five children before their 2018 divorce: Kai (born in 2007). Donald John III (born in 2009). Tristan (born in 2011). Spencer (born in 2012). and Chloe (born in 2014).
Back in 2006, Vanessa told The New York Times that President Donald Trump introduced her to Don Jr. in the early 2000s. “I’m at this fashion show. Donald Trump comes up to me with his son: ‘Hi, I’m Donald Trump. I wanted to introduce you to my son,’” she recalled to the outlet at the time.
Now, with Vanessa asking for space while she focuses on recovery, the focus has shifted from the public-facing parts of her life to the treatment plan she says she’s building with her medical team—and the support pouring in from the people who know her best.
Vanessa Trump cancer diagnosis Instagram May 20 Tiger Woods Kai Trump Ivanka Trump Donald Trump Jr. treatment plan