Liz Bonis Cause of Death: All at Local12 Cincinnati medical reporter’s battle against colon cancer

Liz Bonis was diagnosed with colon cancer 2023, having bravely fought against it for the past three years while continuing to report for Local12. She participated in clinical trials of anti-cancer drugs during her treatment and encouraged others to do the same, Local12 revealed in their obituary.

Bonis is survived by her parents and her husband, James Harrison, a local photojournalist

“Liz Bonis, a medical reporter for Sinclair Broadcast Group’s WKRC-TV (Local 12 Cincinnati), encouraged others to participate in medical trials and new medical procedures,” the obituary reads. “As she stated, Liz participated in six clinical trials of experimental oncology drugs over the past four years.”

Liz Bonis worked in the Local12 newsroom until her final days, her obituary said, although she was battling colon cancer. Although the organization was aware of her diagnosis, per Bonis’ wishes, they kept it private.

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“Liz was determined not to be the story but to get the story,” it reads. “Even to the end of her life, she told no one about her struggle. Instead, she aggressively reported on new medical technologies and cancer treatments even as her options were dwindling. She chose to help researchers and patients find solutions to others’ health challenges rather than focus on her own.”

Bonis has been with Local12 since 2002, making him one of the channel’s longest-serving faces. Before entering the television industry, she worked in radio, including serving as host of Mix 94.1 in Cincinnati and a weekend health and fitness show.

“Out of respect for her wishes for confidentiality, Local 12 Vice President and General Manager Franco Gentile was particularly gracious during her final days,” the statement added.

Arya Phipps Phillips wrote: “She was truly brilliant in using this medium to educate without ever coming across as preachy. May all who loved Liz rest in peace and may her light continue to shine and those who benefited from her knowledge continue to thrive.”

“What a tragic loss. I have been a long-time follower of her health story and watch every Sunday. I have noticed the frailty in her voice over the past week and admire her so much. She truly was a dedicated journalist and caring advocate for so many. Irreplaceable. So sad. She was an angel,” Maxine Bailey said.