‘Tell It to My Heart’ Singer Fights Colon Cancer While Raising Twins Alone – Her Story Will Move You #4

The singer first encountered health struggles as a child, and receiving a diagnosis later in life brought her back to a deeply troubling state, even altering the way she walked. Through it all, she remained devoted to her son and daughter, whom she welcomed through surrogacy.

During a routine checkup, a Grammy-nominated music star and mother of twins was diagnosed with colon cancer. Determined to persevere, she faced the battle head-on and emerged victorious.

Her journey reinforced the significance of proactive healthcare, inspiring her to advocate for regular screenings and the power of self-advocacy — measures that could save lives. “Life is precious,” the singer shared during a “Good Morning America” interview in November 2022.

Just months earlier, in July, a routine colonoscopy revealed colon cancer. She undergoes the procedure twice a year after previous screenings detected benign polyps, but this time, doctors found one that contained an aggressive form of the disease.

Hearing the word “cancer” sent her into a “dark” place, but her doctor provided reassurance, emphasizing that early detection greatly improved her chances of successful treatment.

“He never even said the stage,” the singer reflected, recalling her most recent colonoscopy at the time. “All I could do is [think], ‘OK, five months ago, I know there was nothing. So this is early detection.'”

Detecting the disease early can make all the difference. The American Cancer Society reports that colon cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., yet it is highly treatable and even curable when found through a colonoscopy.

Weeks after her diagnosis, the singer underwent surgery to remove 10 inches of her colon and was declared cancer-free immediately afterward. Although she didn’t require chemotherapy or radiation, her recovery was not without challenges — she developed an infection following the procedure.

Recovery proved to be more challenging than expected, keeping her in the hospital longer than anticipated. “I ended up staying in the hospital for about 15 days, 20 days,” she recalled. “There’s no guarantees when they open you up, what’s going to happen. That’s really the truth.”

During that difficult time, the composer experienced a shift in perspective. While recovering in the hospital after surgery, a pivotal decision was made.

Severe illness led to a renewed sense of purpose, “I said, ‘I’m not ready to go. I’m going to fight this.'” By the end of treatment, weight had dropped to just 98 pounds, and even walking felt different. However, those physical struggles were seen as only a small part of the journey, not the defining story.

Once the New York native returned home, healing became as much about the mind as the body. The experience stirred memories of childhood hospital stays due to recurring kidney infections, making emotional recovery just as critical as the physical.

The process was overwhelming, bringing back a sense of helplessness from those early years. The struggle to regain control felt like being trapped in a body that no longer responded. To work through the emotional toll, therapy became an essential part of the journey.

Now in a better place, the celebrity encourages others, especially women, to prioritize their health by discussing risk factors with their doctors and staying proactive about screenings, including for colon cancer.

She reflected on how illness often forces people to rely on the strength of those around them and stressed the importance of finding a doctor who provides honest answers. Above all, she urged individuals to be their own advocates when it comes to their health.

Prioritizing health and self-advocacy became a key focus, but another significant chapter in the singer’s life was motherhood. Despite not having a partner, she refused to let that stand in the way of starting a family.

After several relationships that did not lead to marriage, she initially considered adoption, worried about missing her chance to become a mother. However, a conversation about surrogacy opened an unexpected door.

Recalling her reaction, the star divulged, “I said, ‘A surrogate? What is that?’ And they go, ‘Rent a womb.’ I’m like, ‘Rent a womb?’ And they’re like, ‘It’s yours, they look like you.'”

The idea of having a biological child was thrilling, but another challenge soon emerged — surrogacy was illegal in her state. Determined to make it work, she balanced a demanding Broadway career while traveling between NY and Los Angeles to navigate the process.

The effort proved worthwhile when she learned her surrogate was expecting twins, bringing her one step closer to the family she had always wanted.

The moment she learned she was having twins was one of pride and fulfillment. “I had a surrogate carry it and it was my egg. I went for one, and I got two,” said the celebrity. “She called me up and they told me. I’m very proud of the achievement.”

Unlike some women who cherish the experience of pregnancy, she never felt it was something she needed. Being single at the time, the public figure believed carrying a child on her own could make it harder to find a partner.

She questioned whether a man would accept her while she was pregnant with another man’s child, leading her to choose surrogacy as the best path to motherhood.

The arrival of singer Taylor Dayne’s twins, daughter Astaria and son Levi Dayne, in December 2001 marked a significant milestone in her life. By October 2007, when the kids were five years old, their daily routines had become a central focus.

Managing twins came with unique challenges, and at the time, sleeping arrangements were a major concern. The siblings shared a room and had developed a close bond. While Levi was ready for his own space, Astaria resisted the idea.

When told it was time for her to consider having her own room, she refused, insisting that she would continue sleeping with her brother.

As Astaria and Levi grew, life continued to bring unexpected moments. At six and a half years old, their personalities were shining through. Described as intelligent, energetic, and thoughtful, the pair constantly introduced something new into Taylor’s world.

Despite the absence of their biological father, whom they were aware of but who did not play an active role in their upbringing, the twins thrived. Their famous mother embraced her role fully, ensuring they had everything they needed to grow and flourish.

With each passing year, Astaria and Levi developed their own personalities and interests, and their mother remained fully committed to supporting them.

Taylor hopes they grow into individuals who are not only happy and successful but also content and at peace with themselves. More than anything, she wants them to “give back and learn how to live fulfilling lives” while feeling both secure and willing to take on challenges.

Like many kids their age, they were drawn to hip-hop, dance, and skateboarding at the time. As the siblings explored their passions, Taylor remained open-minded about their future, including the possibility of them pursuing careers in entertainment. Regardless of the paths they choose, she believes their journey is theirs to navigate.

Taylor wants her children to carve their own paths, much like she had done at a young age. By six, she already had a clear sense of her future, performing solos in school and recognizing her passion for music.

Rather than imposing expectations, she preferred to watch for signs of true interest. If Astaria or Levi showed a strong desire to pursue something — especially in entertainment — she would fully support and encourage them.

Now young adults, Astaria and Levi have grown into individuals their mother deeply admires. In December 2023, Taylor marked their 22nd birthday with a tribute, sharing throwback photos from their early years.

Expressing her love and pride, she described Levi as a “deep magical manly miracle” and Astaria as a “delicate fragrant flower” filled with love and sentiment. She reflected on their unique personalities and the special bond they share, encouraging them to continue embracing the connection that makes them who they are.

Fans couldn’t help but notice the resemblance between mother and children in another social upload. “Wow your children look just like you [sic]. They are beautiful,” penned one individual. Another added, “your DNA is strong in both of those kids of yours [sic].” A third reacted to their maturity, “Wow! they are grown! [sic].”

As Taylor’s children move forward in their own lives, she remains focused on her passion for music. In a 2024 interview, the singer revealed that she is preparing for an international tour set to begin in March 2025.

Recognized as a “singer’s singer,” she sees each performance as more than just a concert — it’s a way to take fans on a journey while giving them a fresh perspective on her artistry. She wants audiences to feel connected, as if they are stepping inside the artist’s world.

Her music has long been part of her fans’ lives, with songs like “Tell It to My Heart” earning a spot on Rolling Stone’s list of “The 200 Best ’80s Songs.”

While those hits may bring back memories for listeners, Taylor experiences them differently. On stage, she stays fully in the moment, fueled by the energy of the crowd and the excitement of performing live.

Her bond with fans remains strong after nearly four decades. When they share how her music has touched their lives, she responds with gratitude, placing her hands over her heart and saying, “Thank you” and “I understand.”

Now more present and vulnerable, she pours everything into her performances, embracing both the struggles and triumphs that have shaped her journey.

Now 63, she continues to captivate fans, who frequently share their admiration online. One exclaimed, “You are extremely beautiful!” while another commented, “There she is shining bright [sic].” Reacting to a photo of her in a floral dress, a fan added, “OMG how Beautiful and Sexy all in one [sic].”

Taylor Dayne’s journey has been one of perseverance, love, and unwavering dedication — to her craft, her health, and her family. As she continues to inspire through music and personal triumphs, fans remain enthralled by both her talent and the life she has built.