Some news transcends politics. The announcement that former U.S. President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer is truly heartbreaking, no matter what your political beliefs. At 82 years old, Biden is facing one of the most aggressive forms of prostate cancer (Gleason score 9) that has already spread to his bones (according to news reports) Even so doctors say the cancer is hormone-sensitive, which means treatments can help slow its growth. It’s a tough fight for anyone, and it reminds us that we’re all human in the face of illness.
A Lifetime of Service and Achievements
Joe Biden has spent his life in public service, from a young senator to Vice President to President. In the White House, he achieved major milestones that improved many lives. He worked with both parties to pass a $1 trillion infrastructure law to rebuild roads and bridges and expand internet access. He also oversaw a massive COVID-19 vaccine rollout that helped curb the pandemic’s spread. On the environment, Biden rejoined the Paris Climate Agreement and signed a landmark clean energy law the largest U.S. effort ever to fight climate change. Abroad, he helped strengthen the NATO alliance and rallied support for Ukraine after Russia’s invasion.
Later Years, Unfair Mockery, and Empathy
In his later years as president, Biden sometimes appeared to slow down or stumble over words, leading some to question his health. Instead of empathy, a number of critics responded with mockery. They gave him cruel nicknames and made jokes at his expense some even went so far as to call him a “vegetable” due to perceived cognitive issues. That kind of talk is dehumanizing and hurtful. People forget that Biden always tried to do his best, and that he’s a person with feelings and struggles like anyone else. He has endured great personal tragedies losing his first wife and baby daughter in a car accident, and later his son Beau to cancer, yet he kept going and kept serving.
Choosing Decency and Compassion
Moments like this remind us that, above all, we should treat each other with kindness. No matter our politics, basic decency goes a long way. Now, Joe Biden is fighting a battle that isn’t about policy or elections it’s about life and health. He deserves the same empathy we would give to any friend or neighbor facing a serious illness.
I hope we can all send our support and good wishes whether through prayers or positive thoughts for his recovery. It’s the right thing to do. This cancer is aggressive and serious, but with treatment and support there is hope he can overcome it. In the end, illness doesn’t care if you’re a former president or an average person…..it reminds us that we are all vulnerable. Today it’s Joe Biden facing this fight…. tomorrow it could be someone we love or…you.
