Published Feb 26, 2021

Radio Host Dan Bongino’s Cancer Story Gives Stage Four Patient Hope

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Bongino Inspiring Others

Dan Bongino, 46, was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma last year, and had chemotherapy and radiation to treat his disease.
Bongino bravely shared his cancer battle on social media and on his radio show, inspiring others to keep fighting.
Managing the news of a cancer diagnosis can be made easier with the help of a strong support network, therapy, and cancer patient support groups.

Radio host Dan Bongino, 46, recently finished treatment for Hodgkin Lymphoma, and his cancer journey is inspiring others.

Shane Daley (@dayley_r) tells Bongino via social media, “I was diagnosed with stage IV rectal cancer back in October and just finished my chemo but still have chemo radiation followed by one or two surgeries. Stories of survival, like yours, gives me hope for my continued battle.”

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Seeing others battling cancer can provide hope and inspiration for many, like Daley, who are going through the same thing.

Bongino’s Cancer Battle

Dan Bongino’s cancer journey began last year when he found a lump in his neck. The radio host initially believed it to be a lipoma, a fatty tumor. He had the lump removed and what he thought was a lipoma turned out to be cancer.

The two most common types of Lymphoma are Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin, and treatment paths for lymphoma differ depending on what type it is. Lymphoma is a cancer that starts in white blood cells called lymphocytes. And the difference between Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin lies in the presence or absence of Reed-Sternberg cell (a giant cell derived from B lymphocytes). If doctors detect these cells, the lymphoma is classified as Hodgkin, the type Bongino has.

Treatment for this disease can include chemotherapy, radiation, and sometimes stem-cell transplant. To fight his Hodgkin Lymphoma, Bongino underwent chemotherapy and radiation. He even shared his “chemo smirk” with fans while he was in treatment.

Dr. Jason Westin Explains Lymphoma Symptoms

Coping with a Cancer Diagnosis

Learning that you have cancer is often followed by an onslaught of difficult emotions, which may include grief, anxiety, and even depression. Managing your response to a cancer diagnosis in a healthy way that doesn’t overwhelm you is typically helped by having a good support system in place. A strong support system can be built with friends and family, a supportive spouse, cancer patient support groups, an oncological social worker, and a therapist.

How you choose to manage your diagnosis is up to you, and there are plenty of options to help you feel less alone in the process. However you go about it, be sure to be gentle with yourself during this time, and find the support you need that feels best to you.

Treating Depression After a Cancer Diagnosis

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