Idol Loss in Perspective
Calgary Sun (Alberta, Canada) September 6, 2002

Justin Guarini's disappointment at losing the American Idol finale Wednesday is nothing compared to the scare he got earlier in the week.

His mother, Kathy Guarini, had to skip his Tuesday night final performance to have unexpected surgery, according to the website Zap2it.com.

The singer's mother underwent surgery to remove a large mass from her stomach area.

Her husband, Jerry Guarini, told Access Hollywood that doctors removed the mass, but had to remove one of her kidneys, as well. The problem was discovered when she went to the doctor for a pulled muscle.

In an interview with the syndicated news program , Justin says he believes his involvement with the American Idol show may have helped his mother in the long run. "It's been a blessing in the fact that I've been on this show, and I don't think events would have transpired the way they did had I not come out to the show. You know, she would have never had her checkup. She's been doing very well, she's recovering.

"It was one of those things where I was focused, I stayed determined, I have a lot of faith, you know ... Whatever happens happens, and I let love carry me through," the singer says.

Guarini's mother watched the finale from her hospital room.