Bindi Irwin Faces Health Crisis, Absent From Steve Irwin Gala

Bindi Irwin faced a sudden medical crisis that prevented her from attending a cherished gala honoring her late father, Steve Irwin.

At just 26, Bindi was all set to support her family at her father’s annual gala in Las Vegas, but her world turned upside down when her brother, Robert, shared the troubling news that she had been admitted to the hospital after experiencing a ruptured appendix.

“She’s going to be OK, but surgery—of all things we anticipated, that was not one of them,” Robert revealed to PEOPLE. With her mother, Terri, by her side through the ordeal, both missed the gala to support Bindi during her critical time.

Despite feeling unwell, Bindi was determined to attend the gala. “She arrived in Las Vegas, ready to face the day head-on,” Robert shared. “She commented, ‘I’m just going to tough it out.’ However, the doctor’s news struck hard: ‘Your appendix is going. It’s got to come out.’”

This gala was more than just a family event; it plays a crucial role in fundraising for their beloved charity, Wildlife Warriors.

A passionate advocate for women’s health, Bindi boldly shared her journey with endometriosis in 2023. Following successful surgery, she utilized her platform to bring awareness to the condition, earning her the EndoFound Blossom Award in May 2024, making history as the first international recipient.