Bindi Irwin was forced to miss the Steve Irwin Gala in Las Vegas on Saturday, May 10, after experiencing severe abdominal pain that turned out to be appendicitis. While her family was in town for the annual fundraising event at The Bellagio Hotel & Casino, honoring her late father Steve Irwin’s conservation legacy, Bindi had to undergo emergency surgery.
Her brother, Robert Irwin, revealed that Bindi had been dealing with what they initially thought was a “grumbly” appendix while in Vegas. Though determined to attend the gala, doctors insisted she undergo immediate surgery. Their mother, Terri Irwin, left the event to be by Bindi’s side, while Robert stayed behind to represent the family at the gala.
“[Bindi’s] going to be OK, but surgery — out of all the things we were ready for, that was not one of them,” Robert told PEOPLE.
Following the procedure, Bindi shared a heartfelt video from her hospital bed to update her fans. This wasn’t just a routine appendectomy — doctors also removed 14 endometriosis lesions and repaired a hernia she developed during her pregnancy with daughter Grace in 2021.
Bindi, who underwent her first surgery for endometriosis two years ago — during which 37 lesions and a cyst were removed — had long suffered from symptoms that were initially dismissed by doctors. Because of her medical history, her Vegas surgeon recommended she travel to New York for the operation, where specialists could further evaluate her condition during the procedure.
“I’m so grateful to my medical team,” Bindi said in her update. “One day at a time. Time to heal now. Sending my love to you all.”
Her mother, Terri, also shared an emotional message on May 13, expressing how proud she is of Bindi’s strength.
“Facing another surgery with courage and determination,” she wrote alongside a photo of Bindi in the hospital. “Removing your appendix was expected, but also having 14 endometriosis lesions removed and a hernia repair was a lot. I love you so much and I know you will recover stronger than ever.”
Bindi responded with a loving comment: “Thank you for being there for me every step of the way. I love you with all my heart.”
As Bindi continues her recovery, fans around the world are sending their love and well-wishes. Her courage and openness continue to inspire those dealing with similar health challenges.
