A Longtime Friend Provides Update on Biden’s Health Following Cancer Diagnosis
In a revealing conversation, former Rep. Bob Brady (D-Pa.), a close associate of Joe Biden, shared insights on the former president’s health after Biden was diagnosed with a notably aggressive form of prostate cancer. Brady relayed that he spoke with Biden’s family on Monday, who reassured him that the ex-president is “OK.”
“I talked to the family. He’s doing good,” Brady stated, highlighting that while he has not yet spoken directly with Biden since the announcement, the family seems optimistic about his prognosis. “They’re not overly concerned. They think this could all be treated and he should be OK,” he added.
Brady emphasized that Biden’s family reported, “everything looks good,” and they are currently exploring treatment options. Despite acknowledging the cancer’s aggressive nature, he maintained a hopeful outlook, asserting, “It doesn’t matter — he’s gonna treat it and he’s gonna be fine.”
While Brady did not specify which family members he spoke with, a spokesperson for Biden opted not to comment on the situation, leaving many details shrouded in uncertainty.
Biden’s office disclosed over the weekend that the diagnosis was made on Friday, indicating that the prostate cancer has metastasized to the bone. They described it as “a more aggressive form of the disease,” but noted that it appears to be hormone-sensitive, which could allow for effective management.
However, a stage-four diagnosis is no small matter. Dr. Chris George, a medical director at the Northwestern Health Network’s cancer program, explained to Reuters that while prostate cancer becomes incurable once it spreads to the bone, treatment can still prolong life significantly. In fact, Dr. George indicated that with the right approach, Biden could live for many years.
The timing of Biden’s health announcement is particularly poignant, as it coincides with a wave of criticism within the Democratic Party regarding Biden’s overall physical and mental capacity, both during his presidency and leading up to his withdrawal from the presidential race last year. It also aligns with the release of a new book on Tuesday, suggesting that Biden’s inner circle had kept him sheltered from public scrutiny amid concerns about his capabilities. Just last week, Axios aired audio from an interview between Biden and former special counsel Robert Hur, where Biden appeared to struggle with recalling key dates.
Brady, who at 80 years old has been friends with Biden for over 30 years, mentioned their close geographic proximity, with their homes less than an hour apart. He fondly recalled conversations with Biden, often centered around their shared love for Corvettes. “I call him ‘the boss.’ They said the boss will call you after the election,” Brady recounted, expressing his affection for the former president. “I love him to death,” he added, noting that Biden didn’t want to disturb him before the primary elections.
