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| "General Hospital Star John J. York's Resilient Battle Against Cancer: A Journey of Positivity and Hope" |
Renowned General Hospital actor John J. York, known for his portrayal of Mac Scorpio for over two decades, remains undaunted by a recent cancer diagnosis. The 64-year-old soap opera veteran revealed that he has been diagnosed with two forms of cancer—myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and multiple smoldering myeloma, both blood and bone marrow disorders. Despite this new challenge, York's perspective is firmly grounded in positivity.
Having coped with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease since the age of 17, York has always been accustomed to managing his health under medical supervision. Reflecting on his journey, he states, "It's just another thing that I gotta now take care of."
Regular check-ups for his pre-existing conditions led to the discovery of a persistent spot that wouldn't heal. Consequently, he was prescribed mild chemotherapy in pill form. However, in October 2022, after consulting with a hematologist, a specialist in blood conditions, York underwent a bone marrow biopsy. The pivotal moment arrived on December 9, 2022, when his doctor delivered the diagnosis. York recalls with a touch of humor, "I thought, ‘Well, that can’t be good."
The gravity of the situation prompted a conference call with York's wife of 37 years, Vicki. York recalls her emotional reaction and the complexity of the medical terminology used by the doctor. Vicki eventually asked the crucial question: "Does John have cancer?" The answer was yes, but York, surprisingly, felt remarkably well, prompting him to ask, "Why do I feel so good?"
York's proactive approach to managing his health enabled early intervention. Despite plans to start chemotherapy at UCLA, he and Vicki were in the process of relocating to Tennessee to be closer to their daughter Skyler and her family. Concerned about informing Skyler, York had Vicki break the news to her after a couple of sleepless nights. Skyler's husband suggested that York receive treatment at Vanderbilt University and its esteemed cancer center instead of commuting back and forth between Tennessee and Los Angeles.
Describing the IV chemotherapy treatment as relatively straightforward, York explains that it involved short infusions over seven consecutive days, followed by a 28-day cycle. He underwent this regimen in March, April, May, June, July, August, and anticipates another session in September. York emphasizes that it's a necessary part of his journey, acknowledging that everyone has their own medical path to follow.
In his quest for a bone marrow donor, York has moved up on the priority list and remains hopeful. He encourages potential donors, especially those aged 18 to 40, to join the registry at bethematch.org/matchformac.
Despite his health challenges, York continues his work on General Hospital, flying between Tennessee and Los Angeles for filming. Fortunately, his doctor hasn't imposed travel restrictions. However, once the transplant process commences, he'll need to maintain "semi-isolation" at home, living close to the hospital in case of any emergencies.
York's outlook on life is grounded in taking one day at a time and being adaptable to the needs of his treatment. He acknowledges his wife Vicki as the steadfast caregiver and guiding force in their journey, and he maintains an unwavering faith that whatever comes next, it will work out for the best.
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