A longtime friend of Joe Biden, former Rep. Bob Brady (D-Pa.), shared updates on the former president's health following his diagnosis of an aggressive form of prostate cancer. Brady revealed that he spoke to Biden's family, who assured him that the former president would be “OK” and is currently receiving support and guidance on his treatment options.
Brady, who has maintained a close friendship with Biden for over three decades, stated, “I talked to the family. He’s doing good.” Although he has not yet spoken directly with Biden since the news broke, he relayed that the family is not overly concerned. They believe that the condition is manageable: “They think this could all be treated and he should be OK,” Brady added, highlighting the family's positive outlook on the situation.
According to Brady, Biden’s family believes that “everything looks good” and they are currently exploring treatment options. He emphasized that the cancer, while “maybe a little aggressive,” is still treatable, which he considers reassuring. “He’s gonna treat it and he’s gonna be fine,” Brady stated, reflecting his belief in Biden's resilience.
Biden's office confirmed over the weekend that he was diagnosed with prostate cancer that has metastasized to the bone. This diagnosis indicates a more aggressive form of the disease, but his medical team noted that it appears to be hormone-sensitive, allowing for effective management moving forward.
While a stage-four prostate cancer diagnosis is serious, Dr. Chris George, medical director of the cancer program at the Northwestern Health Network, explained that prostate cancer can be treated, although it cannot be cured once it has spread to the bones. He mentioned that, with effective treatment, Biden could potentially live for years.
The announcement of Biden's cancer diagnosis comes amidst ongoing discussions within the Democratic Party regarding his physical and mental health, especially as it pertains to his presidency and the recent presidential campaign he exited. The timing coincides with the release of a book that claims Biden’s inner circle has kept him shielded from public scrutiny, raising questions about his overall well-being.
Adding to the public discourse, audio clips released by Axios featured Biden during an interview with then-special counsel Robert Hur, where he appeared to struggle with recalling key dates, further fueling concerns about his mental acuity.
Brady, who is 80 years old, has known Biden, now 82, for more than 30 years, with both men having their roots in the same regional area. Brady noted that he and Biden often discussed personal interests, including their shared passion for Corvettes. Reflecting on their friendship, Brady affectionately referred to Biden as “our senator, even though he’s from Delaware.”
Looking ahead, Brady mentioned that Biden’s family informed him that the president would reach out after the primary elections in his state. “I call him ‘the boss.’ They said the boss will call you after the election,” Brady shared, highlighting the ongoing bond and mutual respect between the two.
In a heartfelt conclusion, Brady expressed his affection for Biden, stating, “I love him to death,” and noted that the former president did not want to disturb him before the primary elections, further illustrating the thoughtful nature of their long-lasting friendship.