SD. Biden Completes Radiation Therapy for Aggressive Prostate Cancer — “He Rang the Bell” in Philadelphia
Former President Joe Biden has completed a major round of radiation therapy to treat an aggressive form of prostate cancer, marking a hopeful step in his medical journey — though doctors caution it does not yet signal the end of his treatment.
Biden, who turns 83 next month, wrapped up several weeks of radiation at Penn Medicine Radiation Oncology in Philadelphia, his spokeswoman Kelly Scully confirmed Monday.
“He rang the bell today,” Scully said, referring to the tradition where cancer patients ring a bell to signify completing a phase of treatment.
Family and Gratitude
Biden’s daughter, Ashley Biden, shared a heartfelt moment on Instagram, posting a short video of her father ringing the bell, captioned:
“Rung the bell! Thank you to the incredible doctors, nurses, and staff at Penn Medicine. We are so grateful!”
Subsequent photos showed the former president smiling alongside medical staff, his wife Jill Biden, and two grandchildren. Ashley added,
“Dad has been so damn brave throughout his treatment. Grateful.”
A Difficult Diagnosis
In May 2025, Biden revealed that he had been diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer that had metastasized to the bone — a serious and life-threatening condition. According to his office, the diagnosis was characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) — placing him in the most aggressive risk category for prostate cancer.
Doctors discovered the illness after identifying a small nodule in his prostate earlier this year.
Next Steps Unclear
While ringing the bell symbolizes an important milestone, medical experts note that ongoing monitoring will determine whether further treatment — such as chemotherapy or hormone therapy — is required. Doctors typically assess patient progress in the weeks following radiation therapy.
Past Health Challenges
This is not the first cancer battle for the former president. In September 2025, Biden also underwent Mohs surgery to remove a patch of skin cancer, a precise procedure that eliminates cancerous cells layer by layer.
Public Appearances and Future Plans
Despite his health struggles, Biden has remained active. He’s been spotted traveling between Washington and Delaware aboard Amtrak, maintaining an office in the capital. Sources close to him confirm he has begun fundraising and planning for a presidential library and museum chronicling his decades in public service and time in the White House.
Prostate cancer remains one of the most common cancers among men, according to the Cleveland Clinic, with age being the most significant risk factor. Treatment options vary, including radiation, chemotherapy, surgery, and hormone therapy.
For now, supporters across the nation are celebrating Biden’s courage — and the sound of that bell ringing in Philadelphia. 🔔
