Marla Gibbs from ‘The Jeffersons’ shares that she overcame a brain aneurysm that many do not survive.

Marla Gibbs Reflects on Health Scares in New Memoir

Marla Gibbs, known for her role in “The Jeffersons,” has opened up about a near-death experience caused by a brain aneurysm and a stroke. In her upcoming memoir, ‘It’s Never Too Late,’ the 94-year-old actress shares her harrowing story from a medical crisis she faced back in 2006.

Gibbs describes a challenging recovery process that involved physical rehabilitation, emotional ups and downs, and the daunting task of relearning basic movements. “Most people don’t survive a brain aneurysm, so I knew God had a plan for me,” she reflected. As her strength and memory gradually returned, she also faced new challenges.

Being a Gemini, Gibbs notes, her mind never quite rests. She humorously recounted how, during rehab, she insisted on using the bathroom independently, despite needing help. “The bathroom was right next to my bed, so I couldn’t understand why I needed assistance,” she wrote. This stubbornness led to several falls, frustrating both her and the medical staff.

Her family eventually had her secured to the bed to prevent her from falling. Yet, despite starting to doubt if she could fully recover, Gibbs was determined. “I watched carefully as they tied me up, figuring out how to untie myself later,” she said, chuckling at the absurdity of her predicament. Even as she struggled, a voice inside her encouraged her to keep pushing forward.

After returning home, however, Gibbs faced a moment of despair when she saw an unfamiliar old woman looking back at her in the mirror. “Maybe my time as an actress is over,” she thought at one point.

Prior to her health crisis, Gibbs was actively working in film and television. Her roles included parts in “The Visit” and “Madea’s Witness Protection,” as well as guest spots on various shows like “ER” and “The Hughleys.”

In addition to acting, she ventured into music, releasing a CD in May 2006 titled “It’s Never Too Late.”

Looking back, Gibbs mentioned that the emotional struggle, alongside her physical challenges, was equally taxing. “The recovery was tough,” she admitted, expressing frustration that important life plans were derailed. “I was ready for a tour with a new jazz CD, but life had other ideas.” This led to feelings of deep depression and a desire to retreat from the world.

With family support, she brought in a caretaker to assist at home. “It’s humbling not to be able to do things for yourself,” she reflected. Even though she felt capable in her mind, her body told a different story.

Eventually, Gibbs began outpatient rehabilitation, where she participated in various therapies to regain her abilities. She recalled a light jog exercise during therapy which, amusingly, led to a mishap with a friend who came to support her.

“It was disappointing,” she said about the incident, adding, “When I complained, the nurse laughed and said, ‘I didn’t tell you to jog at home!'” This experience helped her shift her mindset regarding recovery; previously an independent woman, she battled with reliance on others.

Embracing her situation was crucial for her healing. “I think acceptance is really key to getting through tough times,” she noted.

With time, Gibbs made significant progress and returned to acting, landing guest roles on popular series like “Lincoln Heights,” “Scandal,” and “This Is Us,” among others. She continues to work, with recent appearances in “Chicago Med” and “The Upshaws.”