Nikki Exotica, known to many fans from “90 Day Fiancé,” is recovering after undergoing emergency quadruple bypass surgery following a serious health scare.
The TLC star’s mother, Myrna, shared an emotional update with fans in an Instagram video posted Tuesday, May 19, revealing that Nikki — whose real name is Nicole Sanders — had undergone a lengthy heart procedure after suffering significant complications.
Nikki’s Mom Opens up About Her Condition
In the video, Nikki, 50, could be seen resting in a hospital bed with bandages wrapped around both of her arms while recovering from surgery.
According to Myrna, what was initially expected to be a triple bypass operation ultimately became more extensive.
Originally, doctors planned for Nikki to undergo triple bypass surgery, but surgeons later determined she needed a quadruple bypass instead.
Myrna explained that the operation lasted approximately seven hours and involved a large medical team.
“A team of 25 people worked on her,” Myrna shared, adding that Nikki had to be placed on a breathing machine after surgery as part of her recovery process.
A GoFundMe Was Created
Holding back tears, Nikki’s mother also revealed she created a GoFundMe campaign to help support her daughter financially while she heals and remains unable to work.
“She’s gonna be out for a while and she needs help,” Myrna said emotionally.
In the fundraiser description, Myrna detailed the troubling symptoms Nikki had reportedly been experiencing leading up to the hospitalization.
According to her, Nikki had been dealing with chest pain, heartburn, shortness of breath, and difficulty walking or exercising.
Despite seeking medical attention from multiple doctors, she was reportedly told she was in good health.
The situation escalated when Nikki nearly collapsed while performing onstage. Days later, Myrna said her daughter suffered a mild heart attack and was hospitalized.
Doctors then performed an angiogram, which revealed severe blockages.
“Doctors performed an angiogram and discovered that her arteries were severely calcified and blocked,” Myrna wrote in the GoFundMe update. “Unfortunately, they were unable to perform an angioplasty or place stents because the blockages were too extensive.”
Support Pours in for Nikki
Myrna clarified that the family is not seeking assistance for medical bills, noting that Nikki has health insurance covering the surgery.
Instead, the fundraiser is intended to help with day-to-day expenses during recovery.
“Thank God Nicole has good health insurance to cover this procedure, so we are not asking for help with her medical bills,” she wrote. “We are raising funds to help cover Nicole’s rent, monthly bills, living expenses, and recovery needs while she is unable to work and get back on her feet.”
At the time of writing, the fundraiser had reportedly raised nearly $14,000 toward its $22,000 goal.
Fans and fellow “90 Day Fiancé” stars quickly rallied around Nikki with messages of encouragement.
Stacey Silva wrote, “Sending prayers and speedy recovery,” while fellow franchise personality Shekinah Garner added, “Glad your mommy is with you. Praying for a speedy recovery for you Nikki.”
Nikki is best known for appearing on Season 10 of “90 Day Fiancé,” where she traveled to Moldova to meet then-partner Justin Shutencov and openly shared her experience as a trans woman.
