Notable deaths
Remembering public figures whose cancer diagnoses were reported publicly — used, with care, to understand the cancers involved.
Every page here follows one idea: what happened, why it matters, and what it does not mean. Educational only — not medical advice.
- Sarcoma · 2026Remembering Technoblade and Understanding SarcomaThe Minecraft YouTuber known as Technoblade died of sarcoma in 2022, aged 23. He first thought the pain in his arm was from too much gaming.
- T-cell lymphoma and CAR-T therapy · 2026Sam Neill, Rare Lymphoma, and What CAR-T Can—and Can't—MeanSam Neill became cancer-free after treatment for a rare T-cell lymphoma and later died from pneumonia. Here is a careful guide to lymphoma, CAR-T, and remission.
- Metastatic colon cancer and leptomeningeal disease · 2025Raul Malo's Colon Cancer and Leptomeningeal DiseaseMavericks singer Raul Malo publicly documented colon cancer that later involved the brain and spinal-cord lining. Learn about screening, spread, and symptoms.
- Stage 4 cancer; type not publicly specified · 2026Kevin Keegan Had Stage 4 Cancer—The Type Was Not DisclosedKevin Keegan publicly disclosed stage 4 cancer without naming its type. Learn what stage can mean, why the cancer's origin matters, and what remains private.
- Metastatic kidney cancer · 2026Brad Arnold's Kidney Cancer: Understanding Stage 4 RCC3 Doors Down singer Brad Arnold disclosed metastatic clear-cell kidney cancer before his death. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis, risk, and modern treatment.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2021Willie Garson: Understanding Pancreatic CancerWillie Garson was filming while he was ill and died of pancreatic cancer in 2021. Why this cancer is so often found late, and what care can do.
- Lung cancer · 1966Remembering Walt Disney and Understanding Lung CancerWalt Disney died of lung cancer in December 1966 at 65. Here is what lung cancer is, what raises the risk, and what screening can and cannot do — from the National Cancer Institute.
- Colorectal cancer · 1970Vince Lombardi: Understanding Colorectal CancerVince Lombardi died 71 days after his colon cancer was found in 1970. What the Packers' own record shows, and how screening from age 45 changes things now.
- Head and neck cancer · 1885Ulysses S. Grant: Understanding Head and neck cancerGrant learned he had throat cancer in 1884 and finished his memoirs days before he died. What head and neck cancer is, and what has changed since.
- Colorectal cancer · 2008Remembering Tony Snow and Understanding Colorectal Cancer Under 50Tony Snow was diagnosed with colon cancer in February 2005 and died in July 2008 at 53. What colorectal cancer is, why it is rising in younger adults, and when screening starts — from the National Cancer Institute.
- Colorectal cancer · 2012Robin Gibb: Understanding Colorectal CancerRobin Gibb died in May 2012 after what ABC News called colon and liver cancer. The public timeline, and why colorectal cancer so often spreads to the liver.
- Lung cancer · 1965Nat King Cole: Understanding Lung CancerThe widely repeated claim that Nat King Cole died of lung cancer could not be confirmed here. What the NCI says about lung cancer, screening and quitting.
- Lymphoma · 1994Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis: Understanding LymphomaFlu-like symptoms led to a non-Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis in January 1994. She died four months later. What the public record says about her illness.
- Breast cancer · 1982Ingrid Bergman: Understanding Breast CancerIngrid Bergman had breast cancer in 1974 and again in 1978, and worked through it. What her era's surgery involved, and how treatment changed after.
- Esophageal cancer · 1957Humphrey Bogart: Understanding Esophageal CancerHumphrey Bogart had surgery for cancer in the middle of his esophagus in 1956. What that operation is, and what the disease looks like today.
- Cervical cancer · 1951Henrietta Lacks: Understanding Cervical CancerHenrietta Lacks was treated for cervical cancer in 1951, and her cells became HeLa without her consent. What the NIH record says, and what HPV changed.
- Head and neck cancer · 1908Grover Cleveland's Secret Operation and What Head and Neck Cancer IsIn 1893 a sitting U.S. president had a tumour cut from his mouth aboard a yacht, in secret. What is documented, what historians still dispute, and what head and neck cancer is — from the National Cancer Institute.
- Ovarian cancer · 1989Gilda Radner: Understanding Ovarian CancerGilda Radner was diagnosed with stage IV ovarian cancer in 1986. What the disease is, why it is usually found late, and what her name funds now.
- Brain tumors · 1999Gene Siskel: Understanding Brain tumorsGene Siskel had brain surgery in May 1998 and died nine months later. The tumor type was never public, so here is what the term actually covers.
- Leukemia · 2012Etta James: Understanding LeukemiaEtta James died in 2012 of complications of leukemia. Reports never named the type, which is a good reason to explain what leukemia actually covers.
- Lung cancer · 1965Edward R. Murrow: Understanding Lung CancerMurrow reported on the smoking and lung cancer link, then lost a lung to the disease in 1963. What lung cancer is, and who is screened for it today.
- Lung cancer · 1974Duke Ellington: Understanding Lung CancerDuke Ellington died of lung cancer in New York in May 1974. No stage or treatment was ever made public. What lung cancer is, and how it is treated today.
- Colorectal cancer · 2000Remembering Charles M. Schulz and Understanding Colorectal CancerThe creator of Peanuts died on 12 February 2000, hours before his last Sunday strip ran. What colorectal cancer is, how it usually starts, and why screening matters — from the National Cancer Institute.
- Breast cancer · 1989Bette Davis: Understanding Breast CancerBette Davis had a mastectomy about five years before her death in 1989, and the cancer later spread. What recurrence means and why follow-up runs for years.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026Remembering Wilko Johnson: A Pancreatic Cancer Story Unlike MostThe Dr. Feelgood guitarist was told in 2013 he had months to live with pancreatic cancer — then a rarer diagnosis changed everything. He died in 2022.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026Remembering Syd Barrett: Understanding Pancreatic CancerThe Pink Floyd co-founder died of pancreatic cancer in 2006 at age 60. Here's what pancreatic cancer is — and what the NCI honestly says about it.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026Remembering Sven-Göran Eriksson and Understanding Pancreatic CancerFormer England manager Sven-Göran Eriksson died of pancreatic cancer in 2024. Here is what pancreatic cancer means, explained calmly and plainly.
- Mesothelioma · 2026What Stephen Jay Gould's Story Can Help Us Understand About Mesothelioma — and StatisticsThe scientist survived peritoneal mesothelioma for two decades and wrote 'The Median Isn't the Message.' Here is what that cancer is, explained calmly.
- Leukemia (chronic myeloid leukemia) · 2026What Ryan O'Neal's Story Can Help Us Understand About Chronic Myeloid LeukemiaThe actor lived openly with chronic myeloid leukemia for more than two decades before his death in 2023. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly.
- Ovarian cancer · 2026What Rosalind Franklin's Story Can Help Us Understand About Ovarian CancerThe scientist whose work helped reveal DNA's structure died of ovarian cancer in 1958 at age 37. Here is what that cancer means, explained calmly.
- Lymphoma · 2026Remembering Roger Maris and Understanding LymphomaBaseball's Roger Maris, who broke the single-season home run record, died of lymphoma in 1985. Here is what lymphoma means, explained plainly.
- Prostate and bladder cancer · 2026Remembering Phil Lesh: A Life That Included Prostate and Bladder CancerThe Grateful Dead co-founder, who died in 2024 at 84, had publicly shared earlier diagnoses of prostate and bladder cancer — and urged fans to get checked.
- Lymphoma · 2026Remembering Paul Tsongas and Understanding LymphomaSenator and presidential candidate Paul Tsongas lived with non-Hodgkin lymphoma for years. Here is what lymphoma means, explained calmly and plainly.
- Leukemia (acute myeloid leukemia) · 2026What Paul Reubens' Story Can Help Us Understand About Acute Myeloid LeukemiaThe actor behind Pee-wee Herman died in 2023 after a private cancer battle that included acute myeloid leukemia. Here is what that means, explained calmly.
- Lung cancer · 2026What Paul Auster's Story Can Help Us Understand About Lung CancerThe acclaimed novelist died in 2024 of complications from lung cancer. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Breast cancer · 2026What Olivia Hussey's Story Can Help Us Understand About Breast CancerThe 'Romeo and Juliet' star lived with breast cancer for years before her death in 2024. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Intraocular (eye) melanoma · 2026What Oliver Sacks's Story Can Help Us Understand About Eye (Uveal) MelanomaThe neurologist and author wrote openly about his metastatic ocular melanoma in 'My Own Life.' Here is what that rare cancer means, explained simply.
- Breast cancer · 2026Remembering Minnie Riperton: A Voice That Changed How We Talk About Breast CancerThe 'Lovin' You' singer died of breast cancer at 31 — after becoming one of the first celebrities to share her diagnosis openly with the world.
- Liver cancer · 2026Remembering Mickey Mantle and Understanding Liver CancerYankees legend Mickey Mantle died of liver cancer in 1995. Here is what liver cancer is, explained calmly, and why understanding it matters.
- Esophageal cancer · 2026What Martin Amis's Story Can Help Us Understand About Esophageal CancerThe British novelist died in 2023 of esophageal cancer. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Lymphoma (non-Hodgkin) · 2026What Louie Anderson's Story Can Help Us Understand About LymphomaThe beloved comedian died of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in 2022. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Lung cancer · 2026What Linda Lavin's Story Can Help Us Understand About Lung CancerThe Tony-winning actress died of complications from lung cancer in 2024. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026Remembering John Lewis and Understanding Pancreatic CancerCivil rights leader and Congressman John Lewis died of pancreatic cancer in 2020. Here is what pancreatic cancer means, explained calmly and plainly.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026What John Hurt's Story Can Help Us Understand About Pancreatic CancerThe beloved British actor died of pancreatic cancer in 2017. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Lymphoma · 2026Remembering Joey Ramone: Understanding LymphomaThe Ramones frontman died of lymphoma in 2001 at age 49. Here's what lymphoma really is, explained calmly with facts from the National Cancer Institute.
- Skin cancer (Merkel cell carcinoma) · 2026Remembering Jimmy Buffett: Understanding Merkel Cell CarcinomaThe 'Margaritaville' singer died in 2023 of Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare skin cancer. Here's what it is — and what sun safety has to do with it.
- Metastatic cancer · 2026Remembering Jim Valvano and Understanding Metastatic CancerCoach Jim Valvano faced metastatic cancer and asked the world to 'never give up.' Here is what metastatic cancer means, explained in plain, calm language.
- Colorectal cancer · 2026Remembering James Van Der Beek — and What He Taught Us About Colorectal CancerThe actor shared his colorectal cancer diagnosis in 2024 and spent his final years urging others to notice changes and get screened. A respectful look at his story and the facts.
- Breast cancer · 2026What Jackie Collins's Story Can Help Us Understand About Breast CancerThe best-selling novelist lived with breast cancer privately for years before her death in 2015. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained simply.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026Remembering Harry Reid and Understanding Pancreatic CancerFormer Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid died in 2021 after a years-long battle with pancreatic cancer. Here is what pancreatic cancer means, explained plainly.
- Uterine cancer · 2026What Gwen Ifill's Story Can Help Us Understand About Uterine (Endometrial) CancerThe trailblazing journalist died in 2016 of endometrial cancer. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Liver cancer · 2026Remembering Gregg Allman: Understanding Liver CancerThe Allman Brothers Band co-founder died in 2017 after living with liver cancer and hepatitis C. Here's what liver cancer means, from the NCI.
- Leukemia · 2026Remembering Edward Said and Understanding LeukemiaThe scholar and critic Edward Said lived with chronic lymphocytic leukemia for years before his death in 2003. Here is what leukemia means, explained plainly.
- Colorectal cancer · 2026Remembering Eartha Kitt: What Her Colon Cancer Story Can Teach Us About ScreeningThe legendary singer and actress died of colon cancer in 2008 at age 81. Her story is a gentle reminder of what screening can do — at any age.
- Breast cancer · 2026Remembering Dusty Springfield: Understanding Breast CancerThe 'Son of a Preacher Man' singer died of breast cancer in 1999 after a five-year illness she faced publicly. Here's what breast cancer means today.
- Kidney cancer · 2026Remembering DJ Casper: Understanding Kidney CancerWillie Perry Jr., creator of the 'Cha Cha Slide,' died in 2023 after living publicly with kidney and neuroendocrine cancer for seven years.
- Brain tumors · 2026Remembering Dikembe Mutombo and Understanding Brain TumorsNBA Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo died of brain cancer in 2024. Here is what brain tumors are, explained calmly and in plain language.
- Brain tumors · 2026What David Johansen's Story Can Help Us Understand About Brain TumorsThe New York Dolls frontman lived with cancer and a brain tumor before his death in 2025. Here is what a brain tumor diagnosis means, explained calmly.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026What D'Angelo's Story Can Help Us Understand About Pancreatic CancerThe Grammy-winning soul artist died of pancreatic cancer in 2025. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Prostate cancer · 2026Remembering Dan Fogelberg: Understanding Prostate CancerThe 'Leader of the Band' singer-songwriter died of prostate cancer in 2007 at 56 — and used his diagnosis to urge men to get checked.
- Breast cancer · 2026Remembering Cokie Roberts and Understanding Breast CancerJournalist Cokie Roberts died in 2019 of complications from breast cancer, which she lived with for years. Here is what breast cancer means, explained plainly.
- Cancer of unknown primary · 2026Remembering Christine McVie: Understanding Cancer of Unknown PrimaryThe Fleetwood Mac singer died in 2022; her death certificate listed a stroke alongside metastatic cancer of unknown primary origin. Here's what that term means.
- Colorectal cancer · 2026Remembering Bobby Moore and Understanding Bowel (Colorectal) CancerEngland's World Cup-winning captain Bobby Moore died of bowel cancer in 1993. Here is what colorectal cancer is, explained calmly, and why screening matters.
- Lung cancer (small cell) · 2026What Bob Uecker's Story Can Help Us Understand About Small Cell Lung CancerThe beloved 'Mr. Baseball' broadcaster died after living with small cell lung cancer. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Lung cancer · 2026Remembering Bob Dole and Understanding Lung CancerSenator and presidential nominee Bob Dole shared his stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis openly in 2021. Here is what lung cancer means, explained plainly.
- Lung cancer · 2026What Andre Braugher's Story Can Help Us Understand About Lung CancerThe acclaimed actor died of lung cancer in 2023. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Breast cancer · 2026What Ananda Lewis's Story Can Help Us Understand About Breast CancerThe former MTV host died of breast cancer in 2025 after years of speaking openly about her journey. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly.
- Salivary gland cancer · 2026Remembering Adam Yauch: Understanding Salivary Gland CancerBeastie Boys co-founder Adam Yauch (MCA) died in 2012 after a publicly shared salivary gland cancer diagnosis. Here's what this rare cancer means.
- Leukemia · 2026Remembering Norm Macdonald: Understanding LeukemiaComedian Norm Macdonald died in 2021 after a private battle with leukemia. In his memory, a plain-language look at what leukemia is, from NCI resources.
- Melanoma (skin cancer) · 2026Remembering Brandon Blackstock: Understanding MelanomaBrandon Blackstock died in 2025 after a battle with melanoma. In his memory, a plain-language look at melanoma and skin cancer prevention from NCI.
- Lung cancer · 2026Yul Brynner's Lasting Anti-Smoking Message and What Lung Cancer Really IsActor Yul Brynner shared his lung cancer story so others might avoid it. Here's what lung cancer is — and why his message still matters.
- Mesothelioma · 2026Warren Zevon, 'The Wind,' and Understanding MesotheliomaSongwriter Warren Zevon died of mesothelioma in 2003 after making one last album. Here's what mesothelioma really is, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Bile duct cancer (cholangiocarcinoma) · 2026What Walter Payton's Story Can Help Us Understand About Bile Duct CancerThe Hall of Fame running back died of bile duct cancer (cholangiocarcinoma) in 1999. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Bladder cancer · 2026What Vinod Khanna's Story Can Help Us Understand About Bladder CancerThe veteran actor and public figure died of bladder cancer in 2017. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Lung cancer · 2026Valerie Harper's Resilience and What Lung Cancer Really IsThe beloved 'Rhoda' star lived openly with lung cancer for years. Here's what lung cancer really is — and why every story is different.
- Head and neck cancer · 2026Remembering Val Kilmer — and Understanding Throat CancerActor Val Kilmer lived with throat cancer for years before his death in 2025. Here's what head and neck cancers are, from NCI.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026Umberto Eco and Pancreatic Cancer: Remembering a Literary GiantThe Italian author Umberto Eco died of pancreatic cancer in 2016. Here's what that diagnosis really means, in calm and accurate terms.
- Head and neck cancer (throat) · 2026Ulysses S. Grant and Throat Cancer: A Well-Documented Historical StoryPresident Ulysses S. Grant died of throat cancer in 1885, a well-documented case. Here is a calm look at head and neck cancer, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Salivary gland cancer (head and neck cancer) · 2026What Tony Gwynn's Story Can Help Us Understand About Salivary Gland CancerThe Hall of Fame baseball player died of salivary gland cancer in 2014. Here is what that kind of head and neck cancer means, explained calmly and simply.
- Stomach cancer · 2026Toby Keith's Openness and What Stomach Cancer Really IsCountry star Toby Keith shared his stomach cancer diagnosis before his death in 2024. Here's what stomach cancer really is, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Colorectal cancer · 2026Remembering Tina Turner and Intestinal CancerMusic icon Tina Turner shared that she was treated for intestinal cancer among other health challenges. Here's what colorectal cancer really is, according to the National Cancer Institute.
- Brain tumors (glioblastoma) · 2026Ted Kennedy and Glioblastoma: A Look at an Aggressive Brain TumorSenator Ted Kennedy was diagnosed with glioblastoma in 2008. Here's a calm, plain-language look at what this brain tumor is.
- Breast cancer · 2026What Suzanne Somers's Story Can Help Us Understand About Breast CancerThe actor lived with breast cancer for more than two decades and spoke about it publicly. Here is what breast cancer actually is, explained simply.
- Leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome · 2026Susan Sontag, Leukemia, and MDS: Understanding Blood CancersWriter Susan Sontag died in 2004 of a blood cancer. Here is a calm, plain-language look at leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome, drawn from the National Cancer Institute.
- Appendiceal (appendix) cancer · 2026What Stuart Scott's Story Can Teach Us About a Rare CancerThe ESPN anchor faced a rare form of cancer and inspired many with his resilience. Here is what cancer is, explained calmly, and why rare cancers matter.
- Mesothelioma · 2026What Steve McQueen's Story Can Help Us Understand About MesotheliomaThe 'King of Cool' died of mesothelioma in 1980, a cancer linked to asbestos. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Pancreatic cancer (neuroendocrine tumor) · 2026Steve Jobs and a Rare Kind of Pancreatic CancerApple co-founder Steve Jobs had a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor — a less common form of pancreatic cancer. Here's what that means, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Head and neck cancer (oral) · 2026Sigmund Freud and Oral Cancer: A Well-Documented Historical CaseSigmund Freud lived with oral cancer for sixteen years, a well-documented case. Here is a calm look at head and neck cancer, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Breast cancer · 2026What Shannen Doherty's Story Can Help Us Understand About Breast CancerThe actor shared her breast cancer journey openly and raised awareness before her death in 2024. Here is what breast cancer means, explained calmly and simply.
- Breast cancer · 2026Remembering Sarah Harding and Advanced Breast CancerGirls Aloud singer Sarah Harding shared her advanced breast cancer diagnosis before her death in 2021. Here's what breast cancer really is, according to the National Cancer Institute.
- Throat cancer (head and neck cancer) · 2026What Sammy Davis Jr.'s Story Can Help Us Understand About Throat CancerThe legendary entertainer died of throat cancer in 1990. Here is what that kind of head and neck cancer means, explained calmly and simply.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026Sally Ride and Pancreatic Cancer: A Pioneer's Private BattleSally Ride, the first American woman in space, died of pancreatic cancer in 2012. Here's what pancreatic cancer is, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026Ruth Bader Ginsburg's Long Experience With CancerJustice Ruth Bader Ginsburg lived with cancer for many years, including colon and pancreatic cancer. Here's what those diagnoses mean.
- Lung cancer · 2026Rush Limbaugh and Lung Cancer: Understanding the DiagnosisRadio host Rush Limbaugh shared that he had advanced lung cancer. Here's a calm, plain-language look at what lung cancer is.
- Stomach cancer · 2026What Ronnie James Dio's Story Can Help Us Understand About Stomach CancerThe heavy metal singer shared his stomach cancer diagnosis and died in 2010. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Colorectal cancer · 2026Ronald Reagan and Colon Cancer: What Screening and Polyps Can Teach UsIn 1985, President Ronald Reagan had surgery for colon cancer found during a medical exam. Here is a calm look at colorectal cancer, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Salivary gland and thyroid cancer · 2026Remembering Roger Ebert — and Understanding Salivary Gland and Thyroid CancerFilm critic Roger Ebert lived openly with cancer for years before his death in 2013. Here's what these cancers are, from NCI.
- Prostate cancer · 2026Remembering Robbie Robertson — and Understanding Prostate CancerMusician Robbie Robertson of The Band died in 2023 after a long illness; his management did not name the cause. Here's what prostate cancer is, from NCI.
- Leukemia · 2026What Rishi Kapoor's Story Can Help Us Understand About LeukemiaThe veteran Bollywood actor shared that he was living with leukemia and died in 2020. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Male breast cancer · 2026Richard Roundtree's Story: Yes, Men Can Get Breast CancerThe 'Shaft' star survived male breast cancer and became an advocate. Here's the awareness point that surprises many: breast cancer can affect men.
- Breast cancer · 2026Rachel Carson and Breast Cancer: Writing 'Silent Spring' While Fighting IllnessRachel Carson, author of 'Silent Spring,' quietly battled breast cancer while shaping the environmental movement. Here's what breast cancer is, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Colorectal cancer · 2026Pope John Paul II's 1992 Colon Surgery: Understanding Colorectal HealthIn 1992, doctors removed a tumor from Pope John Paul II's colon — publicly reported as benign. Here's what colorectal health means, in calm, accurate terms.
- Lung cancer · 2026Peter Jennings' Public Lung Cancer Diagnosis and What Lung Cancer Really IsABC anchor Peter Jennings told viewers about his lung cancer on the air. Here's what lung cancer is — and why his openness mattered.
- Colorectal cancer · 2026Pelé and Colon Cancer: Understanding a Diagnosis the World FollowedFootball legend Pelé shared his colon cancer diagnosis in 2021. Here is a calm, plain-language look at colorectal cancer, drawn from the National Cancer Institute.
- Lung cancer · 2026What Paul Newman's Story Can Help Us Understand About Lung CancerThe legendary actor died of lung cancer in 2008. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma · 2026Paul Allen and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: A Cancer of the Immune SystemMicrosoft co-founder Paul Allen died in 2018 of complications from non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Here's what lymphoma is, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026What Patrick Swayze's Story Can Help Us Understand About Pancreatic CancerThe 'Dirty Dancing' star shared a pancreatic cancer diagnosis in 2008 and spoke openly about it. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Breast cancer · 2026Olivia Newton-John's Long, Open Journey with Breast CancerOlivia Newton-John lived with breast cancer for three decades and became a beloved advocate. Here's what breast cancer really is, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Acute myeloid leukemia · 2026Remembering Nora Ephron — and Understanding Acute Myeloid LeukemiaFilmmaker Nora Ephron died in 2012 from acute myeloid leukemia. Here's what leukemia is, in plain, NCI-sourced language.
- Brain tumors · 2026Remembering Neil Peart and Understanding GlioblastomaRush drummer Neil Peart died of glioblastoma in 2020. Here's what brain tumors really are, drawn from the National Cancer Institute.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026What Nargis Dutt's Story Can Help Us Understand About Pancreatic CancerThe pioneering Indian actress died of pancreatic cancer in 1981. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Stomach cancer · 2026Napoleon Bonaparte and Stomach Cancer: A Diagnosis From HistoryHistorical and pathological evidence points to stomach cancer as the cause of Napoleon Bonaparte's death in 1821. Here's what stomach cancer is, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Breast cancer · 2026Nancy Reagan and Breast Cancer: A Public Diagnosis That Raised AwarenessFormer First Lady Nancy Reagan shared her 1987 breast cancer diagnosis publicly. Here is a calm, plain-language look at what breast cancer is, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026What Michael Landon's Story Can Help Us Understand About Pancreatic CancerThe 'Little House on the Prairie' star shared his pancreatic cancer diagnosis publicly in 1991. Here is what that means, explained calmly and simply.
- Lymphoma · 2026Michael Crichton and Lymphoma: A Storyteller's Quiet DiagnosisAuthor Michael Crichton died in 2008 after being diagnosed with lymphoma. Here's what lymphoma is, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Breast cancer · 2026Maggie Smith, Breast Cancer, and Working Through TreatmentDame Maggie Smith was treated for breast cancer in the late 2000s and continued working. Here's what breast cancer really is, according to the National Cancer Institute.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026Luciano Pavarotti and Pancreatic Cancer: Remembering the Tenor's VoiceThe beloved Italian tenor Luciano Pavarotti died of pancreatic cancer in 2007. Here's what that diagnosis really means — in calm, accurate terms.
- Liver cancer · 2026Lou Reed, End-Stage Liver Disease, and What It Has to Do With Liver CancerLou Reed had a liver transplant and died of end-stage liver disease in 2013. No verified report says he had liver cancer. Here is how the two conditions are linked.
- Bone cancer · 2026Remembering Little Richard and Understanding Bone CancerRock and roll pioneer Little Richard died of bone cancer in 2020. Here's what bone cancer really is, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Breast cancer · 2026Remembering Linda McCartney and Breast CancerPhotographer and musician Linda McCartney died of breast cancer in 1998. Here's what breast cancer really is, according to the National Cancer Institute.
- Colorectal cancer · 2026What Kirstie Alley's Story Can Help Us Understand About Colon CancerThe actor died in 2022 after a cancer her family said was only recently discovered. Here is what colorectal cancer is, explained calmly and simply.
- Lymphoma · 2026King Hussein of Jordan and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Understanding the DiagnosisKing Hussein of Jordan was treated for non-Hodgkin lymphoma and died in 1999. Here's what that diagnosis really means, in calm, accurate terms.
- Lung cancer · 2026King George VI and Lung Cancer: A Diagnosis Kept Quiet in a Different EraKing George VI died in 1952 after surgery for lung cancer — a diagnosis kept from the public and even from him. Here's what lung cancer is, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Breast cancer · 2026Remembering Kelly Preston and Breast CancerActress Kelly Preston died of breast cancer in 2020 after keeping her illness private. Here's what breast cancer really is, according to the National Cancer Institute.
- Lung and stomach cancer · 2026What John Wayne's Story Can Help Us Understand About Lung and Stomach CancerThe iconic actor faced lung cancer in the 1960s and later stomach cancer. Here is what those diagnoses mean, explained calmly and simply.
- Head and neck cancer · 2026Remembering John Prine, a Two-Time Cancer SurvivorFolk legend John Prine survived squamous cell cancer in his neck and, later, lung cancer. Here's what head and neck cancers really are, according to the National Cancer Institute.
- Brain tumors (glioblastoma) · 2026Remembering John McCain and Understanding GlioblastomaSenator John McCain lived openly with glioblastoma, an aggressive brain tumor. Here's what this diagnosis means, explained in plain language.
- Lung cancer · 2026Johan Cruyff and Lung Cancer: Remembering a Football LegendThe Dutch football icon Johan Cruyff died of lung cancer in 2016. Here's what that diagnosis really means, in calm and accurate terms.
- Bladder cancer · 2026Jack Lemmon Died of Cancer in 2001: A Plain Guide to Bladder CancerContemporary reports said Jack Lemmon died of cancer at 76 without naming the type. Here is what bladder cancer means, explained calmly and simply.
- Neuroendocrine tumor · 2026What Irrfan Khan's Story Can Help Us Understand About Neuroendocrine TumorsThe beloved actor shared his neuroendocrine tumor diagnosis in 2018 and died in 2020. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Bladder cancer · 2026Hubert Humphrey and Bladder Cancer: A Plain-Language LookSenator and former Vice President Hubert Humphrey spoke openly about his bladder cancer. Here's what this cancer is, explained simply.
- Brain tumors (glioblastoma) · 2026What Gord Downie's Story Can Help Us Understand About GlioblastomaThe Tragically Hip frontman shared his glioblastoma diagnosis and died in 2017. Here is what that kind of brain tumor means, explained calmly and simply.
- Lung cancer · 2026Remembering George Harrison: Understanding Lung CancerBeatle George Harrison died of lung cancer in 2001. Here's what lung cancer really is, drawn from the National Cancer Institute.
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma · 2026What Gene Wilder's Story Can Help Us Understand About Non-Hodgkin LymphomaThe Guardian dates Gene Wilder's non-Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis to about 1999, with remission by 2005. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained simply.
- Lymphoma · 2026Gabriel García Márquez and Lymphoma: What the Diagnosis MeansThe Nobel laureate Gabriel García Márquez was treated for lymphoma in 1999. Here's what lymphoma really is, in calm, accurate terms.
- Prostate cancer · 2026Remembering Frank Zappa and Understanding Prostate CancerComposer and rock iconoclast Frank Zappa died of prostate cancer in 1993. Here's what prostate cancer really is, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Anal cancer · 2026What Farrah Fawcett's Story Can Help Us Understand About Anal CancerThe actress publicly shared her anal cancer journey and helped reduce its stigma. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Cervical cancer · 2026Eva Perón and Cervical Cancer: A Life Cut Short, and What We Know NowEva Perón, Argentina's beloved 'Evita,' died of cervical cancer in 1952, in her early thirties. Here's what cervical cancer is — and how prevention has changed since — from the National Cancer Institute.
- Cancer (general) · 2026Emperor Hirohito and Duodenal Cancer: Understanding a Rare DiagnosisJapan's Emperor Hirohito died in 1989 of duodenal cancer, a cancer of the small intestine. Here's what that diagnosis means, in calm, accurate terms.
- Breast cancer · 2026Elizabeth Edwards and Breast Cancer: A Calm Look at What This Diagnosis MeansElizabeth Edwards spoke publicly about her breast cancer for years. Here is a plain-language look at what breast cancer is, drawn from the National Cancer Institute.
- Head and neck cancer · 2026Remembering Eddie Van Halen and Head & Neck CancerGuitar legend Eddie Van Halen died of throat cancer in 2020. Here's what head and neck cancers really are, according to the National Cancer Institute.
- Esophageal cancer · 2026What Eddie Money's Story Can Help Us Understand About Esophageal CancerThe rock singer shared his esophageal cancer diagnosis and died in 2019. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Lung cancer · 2026Donna Summer, Lung Cancer, and the Fact That Nonsmokers Can Get It TooThe 'Queen of Disco' died of lung cancer as a nonsmoker. Here's what lung cancer really is — and why it can affect people who never smoked.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026What Donna Reed's Story Can Help Us Understand About Pancreatic CancerThe Oscar-winning actress died of pancreatic cancer in 1986. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Prostate cancer · 2026Desmond Tutu and Prostate Cancer: A Voice for AwarenessArchbishop Desmond Tutu lived with prostate cancer and spoke openly to encourage men to get checked. Here's what the diagnosis really means.
- Prostate cancer · 2026What Dennis Hopper's Story Can Help Us Understand About Prostate CancerThe 'Easy Rider' star's prostate cancer diagnosis became public in 2009. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Liver cancer · 2026Remembering David Bowie: What Liver Cancer Really IsDavid Bowie died of liver cancer in 2016, having kept his illness private. Here's what liver cancer actually is, drawn from the National Cancer Institute.
- Acute myeloid leukemia · 2026What Craig Sager's Story Can Teach Us About Acute Myeloid LeukemiaThe beloved sportscaster shared his diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia and kept working during treatment. Here is what that diagnosis really means, explained calmly.
- Ovarian cancer · 2026What Coretta Scott King's Story Can Help Us Understand About Ovarian CancerThe civil rights leader lived with ovarian cancer and died in 2006. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Multiple myeloma · 2026Colin Powell and Multiple Myeloma: Understanding a Blood CancerGeneral Colin Powell lived with multiple myeloma, a cancer of certain blood cells. Here's a plain-language look at what that means.
- Esophageal cancer · 2026Remembering Christopher Hitchens — and Understanding Esophageal CancerWriter Christopher Hitchens wrote openly about his esophageal cancer before his death in 2011. Here's what the disease is, from NCI.
- Colorectal cancer · 2026What Chadwick Boseman's Story Can Help Us Understand About Colorectal Cancer in Younger AdultsThe actor's death at 43 brought new attention to colorectal cancer in adults under 50. Here is what that means, explained calmly and simply.
- Brain tumors · 2026Celia Cruz and a Brain Tumor: Remembering the Queen of SalsaThe legendary singer Celia Cruz died in 2003 after being treated for a brain tumor. Here's what brain tumors really are, in calm, accurate terms.
- Myelodysplastic syndromes · 2026Carl Sagan and Myelodysplastic Syndrome: Understanding a Bone Marrow CancerAstronomer Carl Sagan lived with myelodysplastic syndrome, a bone marrow cancer. Here is a calm, plain-language look at MDS, drawn from the National Cancer Institute.
- Cancer (general) · 2026Sir Bobby Robson's Legacy: Turning Cancer Into a CauseFootball manager Sir Bobby Robson faced cancer several times and founded a cancer foundation. Here's what cancer really is, in calm, accurate terms.
- Melanoma / skin cancer · 2026Bob Marley and Melanoma: A Rare Skin Cancer That Isn't About the SunReggae legend Bob Marley died in 1981 of acral lentiginous melanoma, a rare skin cancer that can appear on places like under a nail. Here's what melanoma is, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Colorectal cancer · 2026What Bill Walton's Story Can Teach Us About Colon CancerThe Hall of Fame player and broadcaster died in 2024 after a long illness with cancer; the type was not specified publicly. Here is what that diagnosis really means, explained calmly, and why screening matters.
- Breast cancer · 2026Betty Ford's Breast Cancer and the Conversation She StartedFirst Lady Betty Ford spoke openly about her 1974 breast cancer, helping millions of women feel able to talk about it. Here's what breast cancer is.
- Brain tumors (glioblastoma) · 2026Beau Biden's Story and What Glioblastoma MeansBeau Biden lived with glioblastoma, an aggressive brain tumor. Here's a respectful, plain-language explanation of this diagnosis.
- Head and neck cancer (nasopharyngeal) · 2026Babe Ruth and Nasopharyngeal Cancer: A Story That Touched Cancer ResearchBaseball legend Babe Ruth died of nasopharyngeal cancer in 1948. Here is a calm, plain-language look at head and neck cancer, from the National Cancer Institute.
- Rare cancer (appendiceal) · 2026What Audrey Hepburn's Story Can Help Us Understand About a Rare Appendiceal CancerThe beloved actress and humanitarian died of a rare abdominal cancer in 1993. Here is what a rare cancer means, explained calmly and simply.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026Remembering Aretha Franklin and a Rare Pancreatic CancerThe Queen of Soul died in 2018 of a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor. Here's what that diagnosis means, according to the National Cancer Institute.
- Uterine cancer · 2026Anne Bancroft, Uterine Cancer, and What This Cancer Really IsThe Oscar-winning actress died of uterine cancer. Here's what uterine cancer is — explained calmly and clearly.
- Cervical cancer · 2026What Anita Mui's Story Can Help Us Understand About Cervical CancerThe Cantopop icon shared her cervical cancer diagnosis in 2003 and died later that year. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026What Alex Trebek's Story Can Help Us Understand About Pancreatic CancerThe beloved 'Jeopardy!' host publicly shared a stage IV pancreatic cancer diagnosis in 2019. Here is what that means, explained calmly and simply.
- Pancreatic cancer · 2026What Alan Rickman's Story Can Help Us Understand About Pancreatic CancerThe acclaimed actor died of pancreatic cancer in 2016. Here is what that diagnosis means, explained calmly and simply.
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