Maria Menounos is sharing the emotional impact of a hurtful comment made by a close friend after she and her husband, Keven Undergaro, decided to welcome their daughter Athena via surrogacy. The TV personality, who had struggled with infertility for over a decade, revealed the painful moment on the “Women in the Nude” podcast.
Menounos, 46, explained that she felt “judged” after a conversation her friend had with Undergaro. The friend questioned the decision, saying, “What do you mean she can’t carry? That doesn’t make any sense.” Menounos’ husband, Undergaro, explained the situation, emphasizing that the couple’s top neurosurgeon had advised against Menounos carrying a pregnancy due to health concerns. Despite this, the friend remained confused, and Menounos found her remarks deeply hurtful.
“I was like, ‘Oh, I don’t ever want to talk to you again,’” Menounos shared. “It’s one thing to be judged by people who don’t understand, but this person knew me and our struggles. For her to make such a judgmental comment was just crazy to me.”
In June 2023, Menounos and Undergaro welcomed their daughter Athena through a surrogate. The couple has been open about their decade-long battle with infertility, which was compounded by Menounos’ own serious health challenges. These included surgery to remove a benign brain tumor in 2017, a diabetes diagnosis, and the discovery of a tumor related to pancreatic cancer in 2023. Despite these obstacles, Menounos has maintained a positive outlook, which she credits for helping her cope with her medical struggles.
“Gratitude is the greatest place to be emotionally,” Menounos said in a 2023 interview. “When I have a fearful moment — and I’ve had many — I choose positive thoughts.”
Menounos and Undergaro’s daughter Athena, who was born via surrogacy, continues to bring joy to their lives. Menounos shared a photo of the family with their smiling baby girl, expressing her love and gratitude. “She LIGHTS up our day every day, and I hope she can light yours up too!” Menounos wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post.
Despite the challenges, including the painful judgment from a close friend, Menounos and Undergaro’s journey to parenthood has been one of love, resilience, and the power of gratitude.
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