A Moment That Will Resonate Forever

On January 7, 2025, in New York City, Hoda Kotb’s last week on the Today show took an unexpectedly touching turn as she was reunited with Jason Ludwig and his two daughters, Savannah and Aubrey. The family first met Kotb in 2016 when she connected with their late mother, Erin, over their breast cancer journeys. Now, years later, this reunion served as a powerful testament to the impact Kotb has had on countless lives.

The Beginning of a Special Bond

Kotb and Erin Ludwig’s friendship blossomed in 2016 during the #PinkPowerTODAY series, which celebrated women battling breast cancer. Both Kotb and Erin were survivors of the disease, creating a profound bond that transcended their television appearances. Erin tragically passed away in March 2017 at the age of 35, but her legacy lived on through the connections she made, especially with Kotb. When they met, both women found solace in sharing their experiences, offering each other hope and strength.

This friendship extended beyond mere words; it became a lifeline for the Ludwig family. Kotb’s empathy and compassion resonated deeply with them, providing a sense of comfort and support during one of the most challenging times in their lives. The Ludwig family credits Kotb for being a beacon of light during their darkest moments.

An Emotional Return

During the “Hoda-bration” week, Kotb’s co-anchor Savannah Guthrie surprised her with the unexpected appearance of Jason, Savannah, and Aubrey. The family came bearing gifts—Jason brought Erin’s favorite flowers, while the girls presented stuffed bears for Kotb’s daughters, Hope and Haley. The moment was nothing short of overwhelming, with Kotb tearing up as she embraced each member of the family.

“We would not miss this for the world,” Jason said, reflecting on the significance of the reunion. He emphasized how Kotb had touched their lives in ways they could never fully express. Jason also highlighted the importance of the family’s support system, including his father, brother, sister, cousins, and girlfriend, who have all played crucial roles in raising Savannah and Aubrey. Erin remains a cherished part of their lives, often mentioned in conversations and kept alive in their hearts.

Legacy and Gratitude

As Kotb struggled to find the right words to express her gratitude, she conveyed her deep appreciation for the Ludwig family’s presence. “I can’t believe this moment happened. You guys, I can’t, I don’t know how to say thank you,” she said, overwhelmed by the emotions. She looked forward to telling her own daughters about this unforgettable encounter, knowing it would be a story they would cherish forever.

Aubrey added a personal touch to the reunion by gifting Kotb and Guthrie handmade friendship bracelets. These simple yet meaningful tokens symbolized the unbreakable bonds formed between them. Kotb promised to treasure the bracelet, another reminder of the incredible impact she has had on so many people throughout her career.