San Diego, January 5, 2026
Two influential figures in San Diego’s news media, Mari Payton and Loren Nancarrow, share their personal battles with cancer, highlighting its impact on their lives and careers. Payton retired to focus on family following a friend’s cancer diagnosis, while Nancarrow’s legacy as a beloved reporter is remembered after his passing from brain cancer. These stories reflect the broader struggle with cancer in the San Diego media community and emphasize resilience amidst adversity.
San Diego, CA – Two prominent members of San Diego’s news media have shared their personal experiences with cancer, revealing how the illness has profoundly impacted their lives as they enter 2026.
Investigative Reporter Mari Payton’s Departure from TV News
Mari Payton, a senior investigative reporter at KNSD-TV NBC 7 San Diego, recently retired from television news to spend more time with her family. Payton cited the challenges of balancing her demanding career with raising her two young children during the COVID-19 pandemic as a significant factor in her decision. A pivotal moment was the diagnosis of a close friend with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, which led Payton to reevaluate her priorities.
ABC 10News Talent Reflects on Personal Loss
ABC 10News has been reflecting on its history as it approaches its 70th anniversary. The station highlighted the contributions of former weathercaster and environmental reporter Loren Nancarrow, who served from 1998 to 2009. Nancarrow passed away from brain cancer in 2013, and his legacy continues to inspire current and former staff.
Background on San Diego Media Personalities and Cancer
San Diego’s media landscape has seen several notable figures affected by cancer. For instance, philanthropist Conrad Prebys, who supported various community projects, passed away from cancer in 2016. Additionally, former MTV VJ and talk show host Ananda Lewis shared her breast cancer journey before her passing at 52 in 2025.
These personal stories highlight the widespread impact of cancer and the resilience of individuals within the San Diego media community.
Conclusion
As we reflect on these personal stories, it is crucial to acknowledge the strength of the local media community and their contributions to San Diego’s cultural and economic landscape. The experiences of individuals like Payton and Nancarrow resonate deeply, reminding us of the importance of work-life balance and the power of community support in times of adversity. As we look to the future, let us continue to support local businesses and initiatives that foster resilience and growth within our cherished San Diego.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Mari Payton?
- Mari Payton is a senior investigative reporter at KNSD-TV NBC 7 San Diego who recently retired to spend more time with her family.
- Why did Mari Payton retire?
- Payton retired to focus on her family, especially after her close friend was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer.
- What is Loren Nancarrow known for?
- Loren Nancarrow was a weathercaster and environmental reporter for ABC 10News from 1998 to 2009, who passed away from brain cancer in 2013.
- Who is Conrad Prebys?
- Conrad Prebys was a philanthropist who supported various community projects in San Diego and died from cancer in 2016.
- Who is Ananda Lewis?
- Ananda Lewis was a former MTV VJ and talk show host who shared her breast cancer journey before passing away at 52 in 2025.
| Name | Role | Diagnosis | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mari Payton | Senior Investigative Reporter at KNSD-TV NBC 7 San Diego | Close friend diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer | Retired to focus on family |
| Loren Nancarrow | Weathercaster and Environmental Reporter at ABC 10News | Brain cancer | Passed away in 2013 |
| Conrad Prebys | Philanthropist supporting various community projects in San Diego | Cancer | Passed away in 2016 |
| Ananda Lewis | Former MTV VJ and Talk Show Host | Breast cancer | Passed away at 52 in 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Funding Cuts Impact Men’s Health Services in San Diego
Henley Enterprises Leads the Quick-Lube Industry
Search Underway for Missing 15-Year-Old in Encinitas
‘Iolani School Triumphs Over La Costa Canyon in Championship
NFL DFS Week 17 Lineup Strategy: Joe Burrow’s Dominance
Unidentified Man Found Dead Near Balboa Park
Fatal Collision on San Elijo Road in San Marcos
Hyundai Partners to Enhance Financing Solutions in San Diego
California Schools to Cut Ultra-Processed Foods from Lunches
Curebound Awards $8.5 Million in Cancer Research Grants
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
