Nicole Hyala opens up about thyroid cancer journey with humor and hope

Known for her wit, warmth, and signature bangag humor that has made generations of morning radio listeners laugh on their way to work, Nicole Hyala is now drawing strength from a different kind of microphone—one that amplifies her courage, resilience, and gratitude.

The seasoned radio DJ, beloved for her candid storytelling and unapologetic authenticity, recently shared an emotional post about her life after undergoing surgery, revealing not only her physical journey but the emotional and spiritual layers that came with it.

“As a competitive person, ginalingan ko ‘yung surgery. Pero mas ginalingan ng aking team of doctors and nurses!” Nicole wrote with characteristic charm and humor.

Airwaves to operating rooms

In her usual style — equal parts heartfelt and hilarious — Nicole recounted the hours after her surgery, giving a roll call of gratitude to her stellar medical team. At the center of her care was Dr. Joseph Cedeño, the ENT surgeon she called “the best,” alongside endocrinologist Dr. Bam Rodriguez-Asuncion, cardiologist Dr. Neri, her anesthesiologist, and even her trusted skincare doctor Dr. Pao Asuncion, who’s now in charge of keeping her post-op scar “aesthetic.”

“Usapan natin, bawal pumanget,” she quipped, reinforcing that Nicole’s brand of humor remains intact — even after a life-changing procedure.

But beyond the jokes lies the reality of what she is now embracing: life as a thyroid cancer warrior.

Faith, family, and fight

Through hashtags like #ThyroidCancerWarrior and #KumikinangINAmo, Nicole is shining a light on her advocacy — not only as a patient but as a voice of hope, humor, and healing for others facing similar health battles.

“Salamat Panginoon for guiding the medical team. Salamat sa inyong mga dasal,” she wrote, giving praise to faith and community — two things that have long anchored her through life’s toughest storms.

Nicole’s story isn’t just about recovery — it’s about finding reasons to laugh through the pain, celebrating small victories, and being unafraid to show vulnerability in public spaces. And for someone whose career has revolved around uplifting others’ mornings, she’s now lifting spirits in an even more profound way.

Despite the haze of post-surgery grogginess — “Medyo bangag pa ako pero ano bang bago?” — Nicole Hyala remains as vibrant and radiant as ever. Her candor is a reminder that healing doesn’t have to be hidden, and that sharing the messy, funny, and beautiful parts of the journey can be just as powerful as any punchline on air.

“To God be the glory!” she ended her post — echoing a sentiment felt deeply by her loyal listeners, many of whom have followed her for years and now rally behind her with renewed admiration.