Joe Biden was observed in public on Saturday for the first time since it was revealed that he is receiving radiation therapy for prostate cancer. He attended evening Mass at St. Joseph on the Brandywine, the Roman Catholic church he has been a part of for many years.
The 82-year-old former president was seen leaving the hour-long service, walking cautiously and relying on a woman for support.
A prominent scar over his right eye, a result of recent skin cancer surgery, was apparent as he interacted with parishioners outside the church after the 50-minute Mass.
Biden, dressed in dark attire, engaged in quiet conversations with several churchgoers for approximately ten minutes before leaving without his spouse, Jill Biden, who was not present during the service.
This outing marked his first public appearance since news broke last week that he commenced a five-week regimen of radiation and hormone therapy for Stage 4 prostate cancer, which has progressed to his bones.
Representatives for Biden indicated that the treatment plan is expected to last nearly five weeks.
Medical professionals have classified his cancer as high-grade with a Gleason score of nine, although it is hormone-sensitive, enabling treatment through medication and radiation. The Gleason score ranges from 2 to 10, with 10 being the highest.
“High-grade” signifies that the cancer cells differ significantly from normal cells, leading them to act more aggressively and have a higher likelihood of spreading beyond the prostate.
Biden has been receiving hormone treatment and medical care, as reported.
The diagnosis followed Biden’s report of urinary issues earlier this year, leading to the discovery of a small nodule on his prostate.
In addition to prostate cancer, he has underwent skin cancer treatments twice — the latest occurring the previous month, where surgeons removed lesions from his forehead, leaving a visible scar.
In 2023, while still in office, Biden had a cancerous lesion excised from his chest. His doctor previously mentioned that these earlier treatments were successful and did not necessitate further treatment.
Biden’s health and age were significant topics during his final year in the presidency.
Growing concerns regarding his ability to serve, particularly after a shaky debate performance against Donald Trump, influenced his decision to end his re-election bid in July 2024, supporting then-Vice President Kamala Harris, who subsequently lost to Trump.
Since departing from the White House in January, Biden has maintained a low profile, mainly appearing for medical updates and limited public engagements.
Despite ongoing treatment, aides have confirmed that he plans to participate in two events soon: an award ceremony in Boston and a Democratic fundraiser in Nebraska.
