Robin Roberts has sweet return to 'GMA'

Created on Wednesday, 20 February 2013 17:18 Last Updated on Wednesday, 20 February 2013 17:52 Published on Thursday, 21 February 2013 07:00 Written by CNN Hits: 653

ROBIN ROBERTS (CNN Photo)

by Breeanna Hare

CNN Writer

(CNN) -- Robin Roberts has been waiting 174 days to once again say "Good Morning America," and on Wednesday she did so with a beaming smile.

The "GMA" co-anchor, 52, left the morning show five months ago to undergo a bone marrow transplant to treat a rare blood disorder called myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Roberts has slowly been getting back in the swing of things, but Wednesday was the official day to "Welcome Back Robin."

Some famous names joined viewers in cheering Roberts on as she returned to the "GMA" desk, including President Obama and the First Lady.

"You've been an inspiration to all of us," the president said in a video message. "Robin, it's great to see you back in that chair, and we're all excited to start our morning with you once again."

Mrs. Obama, whom Roberts will soon sit down with for an interview, told the "GMA" anchor that "the whole Obama family, we've been thinking about you and praying for you and rooting for you every step of the way."

Roberts, resplendent in blue, told the "GMA" audience Wednesday that it was "faith, family and friends [who] have brought me to this moment, and I am so full of gratitude."

"There are so many people I want to thank throughout the morning," she continued. "My doctors and nurses and family and colleagues and people who have sat in this chair, and those who have blazed the trail before me. As my mother said, we all have something, and everyone's story has purpose and meaning and value. And I share this morning, this day of celebration, with everyone."

In addition to her upcoming interview with the First Lady, Roberts will be on the red carpet this Sunday at the Oscars.