Former US President Joe Biden’s First Post After Cancer Diagnosis

Former U.S. President Joe Biden, 82, has broken his silence after receiving a serious cancer diagnosis, sharing a heartfelt message with supporters via social media on Monday morning.

“Cancer touches us all,” Biden wrote on X, alongside a photo of himself smiling beside a somber-looking Jill Biden, who held their pet cat, Willow.

“Like so many of you, Jill and I have learned that we are strongest in the broken places. Thank you for lifting us up with love and support.”

Aggressive Prostate Cancer Diagnosis

Just hours before the post, Biden’s personal office confirmed that he was diagnosed last Friday with aggressive prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones.

According to the statement, Biden had undergone an evaluation after experiencing urinary symptoms, which led to the discovery of a prostate nodule. Tests later confirmed a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) — one of the most aggressive forms of prostate cancer.

Despite the severity, the cancer has been identified as hormone-sensitive, meaning it may respond well to treatment such as hormone therapy that suppresses testosterone, which can fuel cancer growth.

Treatment and Family Support

Biden and his family are currently reviewing treatment options with his medical team. He was last publicly seen in Nantucket, Massachusetts, during the Christmas tree lighting ceremony in November 2024, surrounded by his children and grandchildren.

In a joint appearance on The View earlier this month, both Joe and Jill Biden had spoken about the importance of resilience and public service, though his health concerns were not mentioned at the time.

Outpouring of Support

Leaders from across the political spectrum have offered words of encouragement. Former President Donald Trump released a brief statement on Truth Social saying: “We wish Joe a fast and successful recovery.”

Vice President Kamala Harris also shared her thoughts: “We are keeping him, Dr. Biden, and their entire family in our hearts and prayers… Joe is a fighter — and I know he will face this challenge with the same strength, resilience, and optimism that have always defined his life and leadership.”

Biden’s Longstanding Connection to Cancer Advocacy

Biden’s diagnosis is particularly poignant given his longstanding efforts to fight cancer. His son, Beau Biden, died in 2015 at age 46 from glioblastoma multiforme, an aggressive brain cancer. Biden has often attributed his son’s illness to exposure to burn pits during military service in Iraq.

This personal loss led Biden to lead the Cancer Moonshot initiative, first launched in 2016 during the Obama administration, and revived during his presidency in 2022. The program aims to cut cancer death rates in half by 2047 and improve the lives of patients and survivors.

Past Health Issues

Biden has dealt with various health concerns over the years. In February 2023, he had a cancerous skin lesion removed, and before taking office, he underwent Mohs surgery to remove several non-melanoma skin cancers. In his last routine physical in early 2024, his doctor declared him “fit to serve.”

However, ongoing concerns about his age and health were among the factors that led him to step back from seeking reelection, allowing Vice President Kamala Harris to lead the 2024 Democratic ticket.