Sarah Abo, beloved co-host of Channel Nine's annual Carols by Candlelight, was forced to withdraw from the highly anticipated Christmas event due to a severe health emergency. The popular television star, aged 39, was rushed to the hospital for acute appendicitis, preventing her from co-hosting alongside David Campbell.
During the live telecast from the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Campbell broke the news to the audience, stating, "Breaking news tonight. My beautiful co-host Sarah Abo has been struck down by appendicitis." He elaborated, "She's had an appendectomy and she's under doctor's orders to take it easy. Apparently hosting a three-hour national TV show is not taking it easy." This lighthearted comment provided some levity amid concern for Abo's health.
Campbell expressed his well wishes for his co-star, urging the audience to send festive greetings to Abo. "I just want to say, Sarah, get well soon. I miss you pal, right here," he said, which elicited support from the audience.
Shortly after Campbell's heartfelt remarks, Abo took to Instagram to provide her followers with a health update. "Hello from hospital! Which is not where I thought I'd be tonight, but my appendix had other ideas!" Abo shared, confirming she had undergone surgery and expressing gratitude for the care she received. She concluded her message by wishing her fans, "a very safe and happy Christmas and New Year's Eve. Much love xxx." Her positive outlook, even from her hospital bed, reassured fans and colleagues alike.
This incident marks not the first health challenge Abo has faced this year. Last month, she revealed her diagnosis of coeliac disease during her appearance on the Today show. "I was recently diagnosed as a coeliac. This is devastating, because I love pasta, pizza, and all bread," she explained, highlighting the challenges of the strict gluten-free diet required to manage her condition. Coeliac disease is known to trigger severe symptoms when gluten is consumed, necessitating its complete avoidance.
Campbell, anchoring the show solo for the first time, expressed his excitement and commitment to the event. This year's Carols by Candlelight includes performances from celebrated artists like Anthony Callea and Casey Donovan, and it aims to support Vision Australia's services for families with children who are blind or have low vision.
Reflecting on the night, David Campbell reaffirmed the importance of the fundraiser, saying, "Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight is something I look forward to every year. It's truly one of the highlights of the festive season." He continued, emphasizing the event's dual significance: entertainment and community support.
While Abo could not join the live audience, her presence was felt. Campbell invited attendees to shout out messages wishing her well. Many took the chance to express their affection for Abo, making her absence all the more palpable during the performance of traditional carols.
The warm-hearted atmosphere of the evening was not diminished by Abo's absence, showcasing the resilient spirit of the event and the supportive nature of the Australian community. Carols by Candlelight remains not only a celebration of the holiday spirit but also a moment to spread goodwill and awareness for those with visual impairments.
Despite her recent health setbacks, Abo has shown tremendous strength, receiving encouragement from her fans and colleagues. Anyone familiar with her work knows how dedicated she is to her role on television, making her absence from such a significant event noteworthy. With her recovery moving smoothly, fans are hopeful for her swift return to the screen.
Both Campbell and Abo have been staples on Australian television, and this incident has prompted messages of support from fans across social media, reaffirming the connection they share with their audience.
With the holiday season upon us, the well wishes for Abo echo the spirit of Christmas itself—compassion, support, and healing. This challenging chapter may soon be behind her, but Abo's resilience serves as inspiration to many.