Marla Gibbs from ‘Jeffersons’ shares her experience of overcoming a life-threatening brain aneurysm.

Marla Gibbs Opens Up About Health Crisis in New Memoir

Marla Gibbs, known for her role as Florence Johnson on the classic sitcom “The Jeffersons,” recently shared a harrowing experience from her past. In her upcoming memoir, *It’s Never Too Late*, the 94-year-old actress recounts a near-fatal brain aneurysm and stroke she suffered back in 2006.

Gibbs describes the extensive and tough journey of recovery she underwent, which was filled with rehabilitation and emotional hurdles as she worked to regain control over her body. She reflected on how, statistically, surviving a brain aneurysm isn’t common, but she felt that God had a purpose for her survival. Interestingly, with the return of her strength and memory came new challenges, which surprised her.

“I’m a curious Gemini,” she says, admitting that during rehab, she resisted using diapers, viewing every effort to help her as unnecessary. Her determination to walk to the bathroom alone often led to her sneaking out of bed, only to find herself collapsing on the floor.

Eventually, her family took the step of having her secured to the bed, a decision Gibbs initially resented but acknowledged that she doubted her recovery ability. Yet, her desire for independence drove her to keep trying. She would undo her restraints when the nurses left, only to find herself back on the floor repeatedly. Despite those setbacks, an inner voice encouraged her to push through.

Upon returning home after her ordeal, Gibbs felt disheartened upon seeing an elderly reflection in the mirror, leading her to question her future in acting. “Maybe I’ve reached the end,” she confided to herself.

Prior to her health scare, Gibbs had maintained a busy schedule, appearing in films like *The Visit* and *Madea’s Witness Protection*, along with making guest appearances on various shows. In 2006, she even ventured into music, releasing a CD titled *It’s Never Too Late*.

Reflecting on her emotional state during recovery, Gibbs noted that overcoming the psychological effects of her health crisis was just as challenging as the physical rehabilitation. She faced a deep depression, feeling as though she might not want to continue living. A caretaker was brought in to help with daily tasks, which underscored how humbling it felt to be unable to manage on her own.

Gradually, Gibbs started outpatient rehab, where she received various therapies. She recalls an early rehab attempt to jog across the room, only to fall and hit her head. This embarrassed her but also reaffirmed her determination. Accepting her recovery journey became crucial; she realized that giving up wasn’t an option.

Now, after overcoming many obstacles, Gibbs has once again embraced acting, making appearances on shows like *Lincoln Heights*, *Grey’s Anatomy*, and more recently, *Chicago Med*. She emphasizes that acceptance plays a vital role in healing, as she continues her journey in both life and career.