Hank Green, an author and vlogger, is revealing details about his cancer diagnosis. The 43-year-old, known for co-managing the YouTube channel @vlogbrothers alongside his brother, author John Green, disclosed this information in a video uploaded on Friday to their channel, which boasts over 3.5 million subscribers.
Hank Green shared an update on his recent doctor’s appointment regarding swollen lymph nodes, stating, “I have some good news and some bad news.” He revealed that the bad news is a diagnosis of lymphoma, a cancer affecting the lymphatic system. However, the good news is that it is specifically Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which is considered one of the most treatable cancers. This type of cancer typically responds well to treatment, and the ultimate goal is a complete cure.
As per the American Cancer Society, lymphomas are types of cancer that originate from lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. There are two primary categories: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Hodgkin lymphoma begins in B lymphocytes, which have a role in producing antibodies. Due to the widespread presence of the lymphatic system throughout the body, Hodgkin lymphoma has the potential to spread to various locations.
In order to combat his cancer, Hank Green stated that he would be undergoing chemotherapy for a minimum of four months, possibly longer. He expressed some apprehension regarding the overall process, not limited to the treatment itself, which he described as “fairly well known, if unpleasant.”
“I’m grappling with the fact that this is now a component of how others will perceive me. It feels as though it’s an identity being imposed on me, something that people frequently experience,” he expressed. “While I know I will eventually overcome it, I feel the need to vocalize that I aspire to be the fun, lighthearted science enthusiast rather than someone dealing with anxiety and cancer.”
He mentioned that their audience would be understanding if he takes breaks, but he also intends to keep fans updated, possibly through a newsletter. While he clarified that he doesn’t seek health advice, he does encourage people to subscribe to his newsletter and is also interested in receiving positive recommendations for movies, television shows, and games.
Concluding his video, he expressed a flexible approach, acknowledging that the future is uncertain. He stated, “I hope this won’t be the final vlogbrothers video for several months or more. However, if it does turn out that way, so be it. I don’t want to impose unnecessary pressure on myself.” Hank also mentioned that his brother, John, is likely to take a break from posting on the channel as well.
Green, known for his science fiction books “An Absolutely Remarkable Thing” and “A Beautifully Foolish Endeavor,” has garnered significant recognition in recent years. He has gained fame on TikTok by sharing engaging and educational videos focused on scientific subjects. Additionally, alongside his brother, he has developed educational YouTube programs such as CrashCourse and SciShow. Notably, they have also established VidCon, a prominent annual convention for online content creators.
