RIP, Dr. Marnie Rose

Some sad news: Dr. Marnie Rose, a 28-year-old medical resident at Memorial Hermann Hospital who was featured on the show Houston Medical, has lost her battle with brain cancer. She died on Friday afternoon at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center after being admitted on Thursday with pneumonia.

The pediatric resident at Memorial Hermann Hospital made a dramatic first impression, pulling off her wig to reveal to viewers that she was not only a doctor but also a patient.

Throughout the series, she allowed viewers to ride the roller coaster that cancer had made of her life. One week she would be a glowing poster girl of cancer in remission. Another, she would be a shaken example of cancer’s cruel resiliency.

Along the way, she let viewers into her life, publicly exposing her pain at being rejected by boyfriends, displaying her anguish at being the subject of rumors and revealing her kindheartedness as she kept discouraging medical news from her worried parents.

In May, she said she agreed to be on the TV show because “I think Hermann’s a great hospital, and I think we always get overshadowed in the big Medical Center.

“Also, I thought it would be a good chance to let other people see that a positive attitude can help, and that they’re not alone out there.”

Rest in peace, Marnie Rose.

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73 Responses to RIP, Dr. Marnie Rose

  1. Sandi LaLiberte says:

    Aug 13, 2002 My 3 year old was diagnoised with a brain tumor. Watching Houston Medical and seeing how brave Marnie Rose is/was gives me strength to get through some tough times ahead.

    GoD Bless and realize she has touched me ways you will never know

    You a very special person Marnie Rose..RIP

  2. Nathan Reineke says:

    I saw the final three episodes of Houston Medical this past Sunday and was taken back by the story of Dr. Marnie Rose. Not only was it heart wrenching and deeply saddening, it told showed me what kind of exceptional person she was.

    She now can hopefully look down on us and see how deeply missed she is and what she meant to people who she has touched. The world is most certainly not a better place without her in it and hopefully her spirit will continue on. I for one wish she was still here and no doubtedly her family, friends, colleagues, and patients feel the same.

    Rest forever in a most heavenly peace Marnie Rose.

  3. Sharon Valentine says:

    On Behalf of my husband Carl, We would like to say, we are very sorry to hear that a Doctor we
    enjoyed watching on Huston Med. has passed away.
    My husbands late wife died of Lung cancer in 1997, and I lost my uncle of brain cancer that had spread throughtout his body, and so we know what her family is going throw. We send you our prayers and hope in this time of need you get some comfort in knowing that many people out here are wishing you and yours, a recovery that will be less painful over time. May God Bless each and everyone of you.

    Respectfully Yours, Sharon and Carl Valentine of Denver, Colorado.

  4. mark says:

    Marnie was very brave. I really admired her and I was hoping that she woudl be one of the lucky few that beat a GBM Marnie’s attitude with a real serious problem was much better then many of the other people that have almost no problem. I can not even begin to say how saddened I am by this news.

  5. Kim says:

    To the family of Marnie Rose – I hope this e-mail finds you:

    “Watch Thou, dear Lord, with those who wake or watch or weep tonight, and give Thine angels charge over those who sleep. Tend Thy sick ones, O God; rest Thy weary ones; bless Thy dying ones; soothe Thy suffering ones; shield Thy joyous ones; and all for Thy love’s sake.”

  6. natalie says:

    Dr. Marnie Rose truley touched my heart. I know her parents must be extremely proud of her and my heart goes out to them.

    Natalie D.

  7. Nikki says:

    After watching Dr. Marnie’s story on Houston Medical it brought me to tears. Seeing her as not only a doctor but a patient as well made me see how exceptional she really was. I prayed for her during a commercial right after they had found another spot. It wasnt until just a few minutes ago that I read she had passed away and it saddens me greatly. I pray that her family looks to God for strength and comfort. Always remember that she had a smile on her face and gave a new meaning to courageous.

  8. LORI MANKIEIWCZ says:

    I just recently got hooked on the Houston medical program shown on Discover late sunday nights. I was immediately taken to the impressive pediatric doctor Marnie Rose. Then I realized she had cancer herself. last Sunday night I watched after thinking her cancer was in remission, utter shock to realize it had returned. For the first time I had seen fear in Marnie. I was soooo sad for her. The episode ended with a to be continued, and I could not wait to see how she was doing.Monday I found out that she died on Aug 24th. I was beyond bummed out.

    To her parents, I would like you to know what a special girl you raised. She touched my heart inside and out. I am going through a tough spell and get sad a lot of days and feel sorry for myself. Then I think of Marnie. She gets me through the day. That positive, selfless attitude she had.

    We should all take example from Marnie’s great attitude and positive outlook. She was a wonderful person and wanted to live so badly. I try to not take each day for granted, because I know how badly Marnie would have longed to have another day. I try to have a better attitude, beacuse of what she went through.

    To Lainie and Jerry, and Marnies brothers-God bless you all, and may God give you the strength for the yough days ahead of MISSING such a wonderful woman. I miss her and I never even met her. I can only imagine how deep your pain must be. She is looking down on all of you watching over you. Until you all meet again.

  9. Diane says:

    I searched on the internet just especially to see if I could find out about Dr. Marnie Rose and what had happened to her as I had watched Houston Medical when it first aired and watched it again on the Discovery channel. I am so sorry to hear that she passed away. I believe her bravery in letting the world see what she went through will give hope to others who are battling cancer. My heart goes out to her family and friends. She seemed like a wonderful person.

  10. Chris Thorn says:

    I just saw the shows of “Houston Medical” on discovery health channel this past weekend. Marnie Rose had an exceptional glow about herself while on the show and always seemed positive. I got on to find out exactly how she was doing and was very saddened by the results. she seemed so positive and upbeat always caring for her patients and her family first and putting herself second showed me exactly how humble she was. Her compassion towards her patients and her joy made it so hard for me to watch her suffer. she will not be forgotten easily, may she rest in peace. Joshua 1:9

  11. Amy says:

    I, like many of you, was drawn to Marnie’s magnetism on the show “Houston Medical.” I watched it in its original run this past summer. I just recently resumed my internet service and was anxious to check in on Marnie. When I found the sad news on Hermann Memorial’s site, it was quite a blow to me. I hadn’t realized just what an impact she had had on me. I felt as if I’d lost a friend. I was reminded of the fragility of life. I want to extend my sincere sympathy to Marnie’s family and all who knew her, or felt that they knew her, like me. God bless.

  12. Nancy says:

    After seeing “Houston Medical” several times , it became obvious there were only six episodes. This was very upsetting as we wanted to know what happened with Marnie Rose. I just found out that there was no miracle for her and I am deeply saddened. She was one of the “good ones”. We fell in love with her the first time we saw her. She had the face, heart and soul of an angel. Indeed, she was an angel. She had such inner strength that it rubbed off on viewers. The world has diminished with her passing. Our condolences to her family, friends, and collegues. Thank you for sharing her with us for a short time. God Bless, and may He continue to comfort and guide you.

  13. Jessica says:

    To Marnie’s Parents:
    Your daughter is my hero. I am facing some seroius health problems and am being admitted to the hospital in the morning. When I get down or discouraged, I think of Marnie. She was a true
    “earth angel” and I know she is in all of our hearts forever. I cannot imagine the loss you feel as I know what a beautiful light she was to your life. You should be so proud to have had such a wonderful daughter. I am so blessed and honored to have had the priledge to catch a glimpse of her beautiful spirit.
    Marnie, May you rest in peace, cancer may killed your body, but it didn’t kill your spirit! It still shines bright! You are so loved!

  14. LIz and David says:

    My husband called me at work yesterday, at a hospital to tell me that he heard on the news of Marnie Rose’s passing. We had no idea. She touched our lives, as she did many – we found ourselves thinking of her as our friend. We keep you, her family in our prayers and hold Marnie Rose deep in our hearts.

  15. celine says:

    i admired this brave young woman. as a mother (and a former nurse) i felt such heartache at her passing. God bless and keep her.

  16. debbie says:

    I work for the U.S.Army in Germany and the Houston Medical program was first aired over here on american t.v. this spring. I was very touched by Marnie’s courage and strength in dealing with her cancer. My heart and prayers go out to her family in dealing with their loss of such a special person. The world has lost a wonderful doctor who seemed so full of compassion and life,and I hope research will find a cure for this dreadful disease.

  17. Linda says:

    To the parents and family of Dr. Marnie Rose,

    I have searched many sites to try and find out the status of Marnie’s medical condition. I was so heartsick to hear of this outcome. Your love for and pride in your daughter was obvious, and so very justified. You did a wonderful job raising your children, and Marnie’s time here on earth did not go unnoticed. She was a beautiful person inside and out, and her spirit will live on always.

    May God bless you all.

  18. Cathy says:

    To the loving parents and brothers of Marnie-

    In watching houston Medical I lerned a little about how special Marnie was. I am especially touched by her concern for others, especially for her parents. She always had a joke for you, even when she had to have been feeling very down herself. She has touched my heart just by watching her, I can only imagine what a blessing it must have been to know her. I will say a prayer for you tonight, but I do know you have a special angel watching over you.

    God Bless You and keep you

  19. Sharon says:

    Have seen Marnie’s story several times now on The Discovery Channel and was wondering how she was doing. I was shocked to find out she had died. She was a wonderful person; those of you who knew and loved her were truly blessed to have her in your lives. I saw the foundation you have set up for Marnie and I think she would be very pleased. What a beautiful way to honor her. I pray for you comfort in your loss.

    Sharon

  20. Kelly Tadlock says:

    I was so impressed by Dr. Marnie Rose!She was kind and caring,funny and dedicated. I often watch Discovery Health and started searching the web to find out how Marnie was doing. I was deeply saddened to learn that she had passed away.I lost my Mother to breast cancer 14 years ago after a very hard fought 13 year battle.My love and prayers go to Marnie’s family who were truly blessed to have her and to know that she is with the Lord and someday you will all be together.
    May God give you comfort and bless you all,
    Kelly

  21. Lisa Kudchadker says:

    Dear Mr. and Mrs. Rose and Myles,

    I knew Marnie (and Myles) when were young. I did not see her after she was diagnosed with cancer. I did hear and was so sure she would pull through as I always knew that Myles and Marnie both could do anything they wanted. I did not see her on Houston Medical. But, I loved her and Myles both for their warmth and good hearts. I ran in Run for the Rose this past Sunday and sang a teary happy birthday to Marnie on my way in early that morning.

    Happy Birthday Myles. I am sorry you did not get to blow out candles with your sister.

    Love, Lisa

  22. Jamie Rose- Helfand says:

    I can’t even describe how sad I feel to learn the tragic outcome of Dr. Marnie Rose’s brave battle against cancer. Dr. Rose is a hero to many people and I’m sure she has given hope and strength to those who are going through similar experiences. I feel proud to share the same last name as Dr. Rose. Marnie, you truly were an angel flying too close to the ground and now that you’re in Heaven, I hope you know how many lives you continue to touch. Thank you for what you have given all of us. Our prayers are with you and your lovely family.

  23. Julia R. Kane says:

    I have only just, in the past six weeks been watching Hopkins 24/7. As a ex nurse I eagerly waited for each Sunday night at midnight to watch the next installment. My main interest was for the beautiful dark haired Doctor Rose. I was so angry when I heard that her illness had resulted in the loss of two boyfriends. I was amazed at her courage during Sadar at holding in all of her fear and worry. I was enthralled at her protectiveness of her family. I wept when I witnessed her love for a fellow cancer payment when she purchased magazines to entertain her.
    I entered Dr. Marnie Rose in my search engine tonight as I had realized that the series was now over and I really wanted to know how Marnie was doing. Tonight I discovered that she has gone home to God. I am mad as heck that we have lost her. This is proof to me that “the good die young” and that SUCKS. I never had the privelege to meet her but feel so terribly sad. I am so glad that there is a Heaven as I will see her soon. Feel safe that she will be the “Greatest physician in Heaven”.
    Cheerio Dr. Rose and look forward to meeting you in eternity.

  24. Jo says:

    I’m very sorry to hear of Dr. Roses passing. I only watched the show when it aired on Discovery about a 2 months ago. Today, I was hoping to find out that Marnie was doing well and now this sad news. Thanks for the memories and rest in peace, Marnie.

  25. Bonnie Baker says:

    I too, was so touched by the sweet and courageous Dr. Rose. I’ve thought of her often and now I’m devastated to see she didn’t make it. My heart is broken for the family of this compelling young woman and for a shining spirit that reached through the airways to touch all who witnessed her difficult journey. Rest In Peace…Marnie. The angels are blessed to have you.

  26. Elaine Rysner says:

    I too respected and admired Marnie greatly. Searching for an update on her life, hoping for the best, I am brought to tears at her demise. She was a shining example of not only a medical person, but more than that a loving daughter and a giver of gifts to the world. She will remain in my heart and memory.

  27. SHARON KING says:

    I FIRST WATCHED HOUSTON MEDICAL LAST YEAR. DR. MARNIE ROSE’S PLIGHT CAUGHT MY HEART. SHE APPEARED TO BE A WONDERFUL DOCTOR, DAUGHTER,SISTER, PATIENT. WHEN THE SERIES ENDED WITH A TO BE CONTINUED, I WAITED FOR IT TO RESUME, SO THAT I COULD FIND OUT ABOUT MARNIE. I NEVER SAW IT. TONIGHT I SAW A RERUN. MY ONLY HOPE OF FINDING HER WAS THE INTERNET. I WAITED SO LONG OUT OF FEAR. MY BEST FRIEND OF 36 YEARS DIED OF BRAIN CANCER AND I WAS AFRAID FOR MARNIE. TONIGHT I LEARNED THE WORST. MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU, MARNIE. YOU MEANT MORE TO A GREAT NUMBER OF PEOPLE. MORE THAN YOU COULD HAVE IMAGINED. TO YOUR FAMILY, ALWAYS REMEMBER HER JOY, SMILE, LAUGHTER. SHE IS WITH GOD, BUT ALSO WITH YOU ALWAYS. I WILL TRY TO LIVE MY LIFE AS SHE DID HERS, WITH COURAGE AND LAUGHTER. GOD BLESS HER SOUL. AND MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.

  28. Christy says:

    I watched this show last year and remembered that Marnie had passed aay around this time. I still think of her strength and courage. As medical professional and a person, she was an inspriation. I had hoped that the show would be brought back to life, so many patients commented on how it affected them positively. GOD BLESS MARNIE!!!!!!! From just watching the show, you felt like you knew her. I would think she would be happy that she affected so many and still does. I would have loved to watch the reruns on the discovery channel but found out about it tonight from comments that others posted

  29. Becky says:

    I too had watched the couragous lady Dr. Rose and campained for her through hopes and prayers. Even though the show ended over a year ago, I had high hopes that she would come out the victor against her insidious disease. I kept watching for an update on a rerun or a follow up show,today I learned the sad fate of precious Dr. Marnie. She was a true lady and a champion of her cause. Our world will miss her humor, wit and compassion for those she loved and cared for and those she never knew how much she touched.God bless her family and friends, I know we all feel a deep void in our hearts with her passing. My grandmother once told me when someone close to our family died, “That when God picks flowers he always picks the prettiest ones.” and I know he has the most beautiful bouquet, with the world’s prettiest Rose! May this thought give you comfort.
    Much love and prayers, Becky Mahone

  30. nancy says:

    EACH TIME I WATCH HOUSTON MEDICAL AND WATCH MARNIE’S STORY IT STILL BRINGS TEARS TO MY EYES.EVEN THOUGH ITS BEEN A YEAR SINCE HER PASSING SHE IS STILL AN INSPIRATION TO ME. GOD BLESS HER. MY BEST TO HER FAMILY.

  31. Heather says:

    I like many others wanted an update on Marnie, so to the net I go & find myself with a broken heart at learning of her passing. I truly hoped she would find the happy ever after life & I guess maybe she has. To the family: I have two daughters of my own & I can only imagine what it would be like to lose one of them, it almost stops me from breathing just to think about it.
    Watching Marnie & seeing how she loved & protected her family makes me know that she knew exactly how much you loved her. I know she would much rather have been here to see you in person, but she is without a doubt watching over you & still protecting you, as that was just Marnie.

  32. Elaine Wolff says:

    Like so many others, I watch Houston Medical. I am sure if I hadn’t become a special education teacher, I would have been a nurse. I have watched Dr. Marnie Rose on several episodes, each time making such an impression on my heart. On a whim I decided to find out some information on her diagnosis. I can’t tell you how saddened I am to learn of her death. What a brave young woman she was and such an inspiration to us all. May God keep His loving arms around you forever. Elaine Wolff

  33. jennifer says:

    I just watched Houston Medical today, and I was so intrigued by the two cancer patients, mary sharky, who was diagnosed with the same cancer my mom had, and Dr. Marnie Rose, that I too decided to look them up on the web. I am just so saddened to see Dr. Rose died from brain cancer, my mom past away six weeks ago today from cancer at age 58. My mom was diagnosed June 10 at age 58 and died July 27, but through out her battle with cancer, she always maintained that her and I had 28 beautiful years together, and she thanked God everyday that at least she lived 58 years, unlike Dr. Rose. So, if any of Dr. Rose’s family reads this, please, please, know so many people have you on our minds tonight and I hope that you also have found the inner peace that I am sure your daughter reached, she seemed like the most awesome person. I will always remember her and be grateful she shared her life with all of us.

  34. Pat Steele says:

    Like so many of the others who have posted messages, I have just learned of Marnie’s passing. I kept looking for a follow up of Hstn. Medical hoping to hear some GOOD news of her. She was a light, a joy, and the bravest young woman I have ever “known”. Her example is one that will inspire others way beyond her wildest imaginings. She touched more lives, in her short time, than most people do in a full lifetime. To her family and colleagues, I extend my most heartfelt sympathy. I share your grief.

    Sincerely, Pat Steele

  35. Tonja says:

    My husband and I were deeply moved with Marnie’s struggle with cancer. We started following Marnie this summer on re-runs of Houston Medical on “Discovery Health Channel”. My big strong husbland cried when we found out that she died. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Please know that she is still remembered.

    Tonja and Russ Waugh
    September 9, 2003

  36. Cathy Anderson says:

    I have seen HOUSTON MEDICAL on the Discovery Health channel several times and my respect for Marnie grew each time. Now, as I personally confront the possibility of colon cancer, I look to Marnie for strength and courage. She was a wonderful example for all of us. Marnie, may God bless you and keep you. I will remember you in my prayers.

  37. Diane says:

    I never forgot Marnie and always hoped so dearly she had conquered that vicious, unexpected, devastating disease.
    I finally checked for myself just yesterday and found she didn’t beat the odds.
    She was so remarkable, so precious and unique, her family’s loss has to be indescribable. Marnie was the rare sort of person who people feel is a major blessing in their lives from day one. Her parents must have been in awe of her from the very beginning of her life. I was so impressed by her I felt somehow I knew her, and her death does seem to take some of the light out of all the lives she touched, even on film.
    She was forced to leave a wonderful life, and I am just so sad at that.

  38. Lynn says:

    When Houston Medical first aired last summer, I was captivated by Dr. Marnie Rose and her resilient spirit as she battled her cancer with grace and optimism that she could conquer it. I prayed for her and admired her ability to continue her day-to-day routine with the most amazing attitude. I learned from her the importance of faith and hope. I grieved for her family when I read her obituary in the Chronicle last summer. This week, I again watched Houston Medical re-runs and was, once again, touched by Dr. Rose’s beautiful spirit. God has a plan for each of us and a place at His side when we fulfill our purpose on this earth. I know that Dr. Marnie Rose is one of His special angels, for she lived her life as a messenger of peace, hope and faith. Our loss on earth is Heaven’s gain. May God hold close the Rose family and comfort them.

  39. Tom says:

    My thoughts and prayers are with Marnie’s family. She was so beautiful and brave.

  40. Melody says:

    I too just found out of Marnie’s passing. I feel like I have lost a friend. I had so hoped that she would beat the awful disease. We didn’t even know her, but she touched us with her spirit, her humor, and her bravery. When I am down, I will think of her and remember how she always kept a positive attitude even when the odds were against her. We will miss your smile Marnie. God bless.

  41. Ginny Keeney says:

    I am deeply saddened to learn that Dr. Marnie Rose did not survive her brain cancer. She was a remarkably brave and beautiful young woman. The world is a better place for having her here, even briefly. She was a testament to living each day to the fullest no matter what obstacles lie in our paths. How tragic to lose her so soon in her young career. We must never give up the fight to find better treatments and eventually, a cure, for cancer. May God keep her in his care.

  42. Vince says:

    Like the rest of you, I became caught up in the drama surrounding Dr. Marnie Rose and her battle with brain cancer as I watched it each week on Houston Medical, but for the past few weeks they’ve been replacing that program with specials so I turned to the Internet to see if I could learn the eventual outcome of her disease. When I found this page I was heart-broken to learn that such a beautiful soul had been taken from us much too early. I lost a cousin to brain cancer when she was 10 years old. It’s always a tragedy when they’re taken before their parents. I’m 28 years old myself and my life hasn’t even begun yet. My first thought when I hear about someone that is so dedicated to her career and her future being taken so early is that it’s so drastically unfair because she hardly got the reap the rewards of her labors, but after more contemplation, my faith tells me to rely on karma. Thus, I’m sure that Dr. Rose is reaping all of the blessings and good fortune that her devotion and eagerness to help others during her life has afforded her in the afterlife. We’ll continue to send positive thoughts her way. God bless Dr. Rose and her family.

  43. April Burns says:

    Hi,

    Like Vince, I also searched the internet to find out why Houston Medical hadn’t been on lately. I was hoping to find out the condition of Dr. Rose as well. I found this website and am grateful that many are writing in with kind regards to her parents. Indeed, she was a strong, wonderful woman. She gives us all hope.
    Thank you for this website.

  44. Dr Mark says:

    Marnie was looking for love, and she has found it. Reading these messages, she was very loved and appreciated.

    Dr Mark

  45. Jody says:

    I truly believe that Dr Marnie Rose is caring for all of the little angels in heaven now!

  46. Jeryl Pagliasotti says:

    I was watching a previous episode of Houston Medical, which showed Dr. Marnie Rose. I never heard what happened with her struggle with her battle with cancer. I am truly sorry for her loss. I hope her spirit lives on to help other patients deal with difficult situations.

  47. Lanie Rose says:

    It touched my heart to read all the kind reflections about our darling Marnie. We so appreciate all of you taking the time to describe her impact on you. The first annual 2003 Run for the Rose in Marnie’s memory was fortunate enough because of all of Marnie’s wonderful fans and friends to net an amazing $90,000 that was divided evenly between brain cancer research at M.D. Anderson and pediatric initiatives at Memorial Hermann Children’s Hospital. We are so grateful that Marnie lives on through the kindness of so many others.
    Lanie Rose, Marnie’s Mom

  48. Sheryl says:

    Dear Lanie,

    I have been watching the reruns of Houston Medical and wanted to know how Marnie was and was so sad to know she moved to Heaven more than a year ago. I lost my mother suddenly a few years ago and the pain does get better, but is still sharp. I found Marnie to be an inspiration to all sick or not. Being a mother myself my worst fear is to lose one of my children, you and your husband have my sympathies as well as my admiration at your strength. May God bless you always.

  49. Maria says:

    I am sitting here in shock knowing that Marnie has passed away. I watched Houston Medical about a year ago and was fascinated by this dynamic young doctor battling brain cancer. Months after watching the show my 27 year old son was diagnosed with brain cancer. We have been battling his disease for several months now. Recently the reruns of Houston Medical have been airing. I have been watching them very intently and with a new set of eyes. I can’t seem to get Dr. Marnie Rose out of my mind wondering how she was doing, so of course I went on line and typed in her name. I can not tell you how devastated I was to find out she died a year and a half ago. God Bless her soul. Marnie, please watch over my son and all the other brain cancer patients. Thank you for your beautiful example of hope and love.

  50. Stacey says:

    I have watched Houston Medical many times and often wondered what happened to Marnie. I just decided to look her up and began to cry when I realized she has been gone for so long. She was truly beautiful and a credit to the medical field. May she have peace rest knowing how many people she touched in so many ways.

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