Jill Biden Says Husband Joe Biden Will ‘Live with Cancer’ for the Rest of His Life as She Shares Health Update

In a recent interview, Dr. Jill Biden provided an update regarding her husband, former President Joe Biden, who was diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer in May 2025. The diagnosis marked a significant moment for the couple, as Jill revealed that the cancer has now metastasised to Joe’s bones, complicating his health situation further.

Appearing on the *Today* show on June 1, Jill shared insights into her husband’s ongoing battle with cancer. At the time of the interview, Joe Biden, now 83 years old, was facing treatment challenges associated with his serious diagnosis. “You know, he’s doing OK,” Jill told co-host Craig Melvin, who has personal experience with cancer care in his family. “If he had just been diagnosed with prostate cancer, that’s one thing, because that can be cured, but the fact that it metastasised to his bones makes it a whole different story,” she reflected, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

The former first lady expressed optimism, insisting that her husband would continue to live with the illness. She remarked, “I think Joe will live with cancer till the rest of his life.” Her comments seemed to resonate with a broader narrative of resilience that she hopes will inspire others facing similar struggles. Throughout their challenges, Jill emphasised their ongoing commitment to advocating against cancer as part of their legacy.

During the interview, she also spoke about the multifaceted role of a caregiver, acknowledging the emotional and physical toll that care requires. “It’s so hard to be a caregiver in that you worry every day, ‘Is he eating right? Is he getting enough exercise? Did he have his medications?’” she conveyed. It is a sentiment that many families might resonate with, as they navigate their own journeys with illness. Jill’s approach combines personal experience with a message of hope for those who also find themselves in similar predicaments.

While Jill was vocal about her husband’s health challenges, she also discussed Joe’s ongoing public engagements despite his condition. “He’s out making speeches and he’s travelling on Amtrak… He was just at the Delaware Memorial Bridge for the veterans’ ceremony,” she continued, illustrating his dedication to fulfilling his responsibilities, even in the face of serious health issues. “So yeah, he’s doing a lot, but he has stage 4 cancer,” she added, underscoring the juxtaposition of his active lifestyle against the backdrop of his battle with disease.

In a poignant segment of the discussion, Jill touched upon Joe’s decision to run for a second term in office. Joe Biden ultimately withdrew from the presidential race in July 2024, amid growing concerns regarding his health. Jill recalled, “The doctors did assure us. He had an exam every year, like every president does — the doctors assured us he was healthy.” She expressed pride in her husband’s work ethic, noting that he diligently engaged in bipartisan legislative efforts, maintaining a vigorous schedule despite underlying health concerns.

However, Jill also acknowledged some warning signs that she observed in Joe’s behaviour. “Did I see him slowing down a little bit when he got tired? Did he stutter a little bit at night? Sure,” she admitted. Yet, she maintained that he was still effective in his role, stating, “But he was still doing the job and he was doing a good job.” These reflections reveal the complex nature of caregiver perspectives, where love and concern intertwine with the realities of illness.

Lastly, when asked why she did not persuade Joe to withdraw from the race sooner, Jill stressed the importance of his autonomy in the decision-making process. “It had to be his decision, Craig. It had to be his decision alone because he had to live with that decision for the rest of his life,” she explained. Her response highlighted the significant weight of such choices, and the respect she afforded to her husband’s agency, despite the family’s input – a gesture of support that remains crucial during such challenging times.

As they navigate this new chapter in their lives, the Bidens continue to inspire many with their resilience and commitment to fighting cancer, both personally and through public advocacy. Jill’s candid reflections may serve as a source of hope for countless families confronting similar battles, showcasing the strength of perseverance and compassion amidst adversity.