Bravo Star Michelle Saniei Tearfully Reveals Her Late Mom Initially Thought Her Stage 4 Colon Cancer Was Food Poisoning

Published: June 11, 2025

Michelle Saniei, a 36-year-old Bravo star, has opened up about the devastating loss of her mother, who passed away in November 2024, just a year after being diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer.

Saniei shared her emotional story on the Tuesday, June 10 episode of The Valley, where she revealed that her mom initially thought she had food poisoning before receiving her diagnosis.

“My mom got sick about a year ago when I was going through everything with Jesse [Lally, her ex],” Saniei said. “She thought she had food poisoning and had to go to the doctor, and she was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer.”

Saniei added that her mom did not respond well to chemotherapy, and her condition worsened over time. “It’s been very hard for me because my mom is my best friend and the one who supports me the most,” Saniei said, breaking down in tears.

Michelle Saniei with her mom

According to the Mayo Clinic, colon cancer is a growth of cells that begins in a part of the large intestine called the colon. Symptoms include a change in bowel habits, weakness or tiredness, and losing weight without trying.

Saniei shared her heart with her fans on Instagram, posting a series of photos of her mom, including throwback pictures from her childhood and more recent snaps alongside her daughter Isabella, 5, whom Saniei shares with Lally.

“Sharing my heart with you tonight. This was the first time I spoke on camera about my mom’s battle with cancer. She’s no longer with us, but her love and strength are with me every day. I miss her deeply, and I’m grateful to share a little piece of her with you,” Saniei wrote.

Michelle Saniei's mom with her daughter Isabella