Robin Roberts returns to 'Good Morning America'

By Patrick Kevin Day

Aug. 20, 2012 12 AM PT

After an abrupt departure from the set of “Good Morning America” a few weeks ago, Robin Roberts returned to the couch to resume co-anchoring duties on Monday. And good news for those concerned about her health, Roberts says she’s feeling much better.

That’s not to say the “GMA” star’s medical worries are behind her. She’s still set to take a longer medical leave in the coming weeks in order to have a bone-marrow transplant from her sister to help her battle MDS, a blood and bone-marrow disorder she was diagnosed with in June. But according to Roberts, the time off was much needed.

“My needle was past ‘E’ when I left here a couple of weeks ago, but I’ve got a full tank, so watch out,” she said on Monday’s show.

She later admitted, “I haven’t taken this much time off in quite some time.”

On the agenda during Roberts’ break was a trip to California to raise money for cancer research, a visit to Mississippi to see family, and finally, a trip to Italy to celebrate a friend’s 50th birthday. Of course, being a renowned TV anchor has its privileges, and Roberts was able to get special access to the Vatican, where she made a prayer-stop at the altar the pope uses before going out on his balcony to address the crowds.

“I was saying a special prayer for all those who have lifted me up in prayer,” Roberts explained.

Roberts continued her treatment during her vacation, but the PICC line, part of her chemotherapy, has been removed from her arm.

She said the current plan is for her to undergo the transplant in early September, which was why it was so important for her to take a vacation.

“I feel alive again and really ready to tackle this next challenge,” she said.

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Join Patrick Kevin Day on Google+ or Twitter. Email: patrick.day@latimes.com