* I told subscribers this earlier today…
A routine medical exam found some cancer in my body.
Several doctors, oncologists, surgeons, etc. have told me that this cancer will not kill me. It’s very curable, I’m assured.
I’ll be undergoing chemotherapy and then surgery to remove a tumor. The side effects of the chemo are said to be mild, and should be very close to the symptoms I’m already having. I’m thankfully in no pain at all, and that should continue. It’s unlikely that my hair will fall out, so at least I have that going for me.
I’ve been very tired for weeks because I have an iron deficiency likely due to the tumor. I underwent an iron infusion late last week and it relieved most of my fatigue, but if you’ve been wondering why Isabel has been writing so many stories lately, that’s the reason. Now that I’m feeling better, I hope to be able to continue those infusions so I can work and function like a near-normal person.
I have only one request: Please don’t tie up my phone with texts and calls. I’m still working, after all, and plan to keep on keeping on as much as I can, so I’d rather that you send any well-wishes, etc. to my email account: capitolfax@gmail.com.
Thanks for your understanding. And I’ll let you know if anything changes. But, again, I’m assured that I’ll live through this. And what I can’t handle, Isabel can. She’s progressed a lot and is simply invaluable.
Discuss.
- Edge - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 8:45 am:
Hang in there. I was diagnosed with cancer in June, and am cancer free now. Yippee!!!
- Linus - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 8:45 am:
Sending you best wishes, Rich, and I’m sure I speak for Cap Fax readership writ large. Hang in there!
- Huh? - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 8:47 am:
Best wishes for a quick recovery and a long and healthy life.
- hisgirlfriday - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 8:48 am:
Best of luck to you on your treatment and thanks for letting your readers know what is going on even if that may not really be our business to know
Best wishes also to Isabel in her efforts to hold down the fort
- A Guy - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 8:55 am:
Heal.
- Occasionally Moderated - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 8:59 am:
Rich, after reading your stories about traveling as a young man, I thought “This ink stained scribe is a badass.”
I still think that and know you will approach this with the same courage and purpose.
- Robert Montgomery - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:00 am:
What Huh? said. You’ve got lots of support and we all wish you the best.
- Jack in Chatham - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:02 am:
Every six to eight years, Universities give professors a six month sabbatical. This gives them time to write-up some of their research and observations into articles which they then submit to interested journals. This helps to share knowledge, increase prestige for the institution and provides a break for the professors. This might be a good time to unplug from the daily activity and sort through old notes and start a draft of your experience reporting on government to date.
I had radiation treatment. Cancer treatment continues to improve including the blood immunotherapy which a friend had. He was supposed to die in six months about thirteen years ago. Try to take Oscar for a short walk daily. Good luck.
Glad Isabella is around to keep the coffee fresh and hot.
- Hmmmm - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:03 am:
Sending you and your loved ones strength and healing energy. Thanks for all you do, Rich and Isabel, to keep us informed.
- Blair - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:03 am:
Wishing you the speediest recovery!!!
- Save Ferris - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:10 am:
Sending well wishes here.
- Niles Township - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:11 am:
In our thoughts for a complete recovery and continued strength as you tackle this.
- Northsider - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:12 am:
That’s lousy news about having cancer, but I’m very glad it’s non-fatal and easily curable. I wish you a speedy recovery.
- Walker - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:12 am:
Best wishes. for your full recovery.
Cancer treatment ain’t what it used too be — they’ve made miraculous progress in recent years. And I’m sure you asked them all the right questions.
- Rivers Gently Flowing - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:20 am:
Best wishes. I’ve been through it - chemo, radiation, iron infusions, surgery, immunotherapy. It was a three year long shlog but I am alive. Work the plan, get that sleep.
- lake county democrat - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:29 am:
Ditto on all the best wishes. My mom had one with a slightly more pessimistic prognosis, completely beat it back, and lived for decades before passing at a very old age.
- Three Dimensional Checkers - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:32 am:
Sorry to hear, although I am glad it is a good prognosis. Best wishes for a speedy and full recovery.
- Notorious JMB - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:33 am:
It’s a shock when it happens, but it will amaze you the number of people who will come out of the woodwork to wish you well, send a card, drop off food or just to visit. People you haven’t thought about in years, did something for them that you’ve forgot but they haven’t.
- @misterjayem - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:37 am:
Rich,
Love you, brother.
– MrJM
- Sine Die - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:39 am:
Get well soon my friend!
- JoanP - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:42 am:
I’m so sorry that you have to deal with this, but am glad to know that your cancer is curable.
Having been through chemo/radiation myself a number of years ago, I can only say to take it easy on yourself and don’t be shy about asking for help when you need it.
Having Isabel to help with the blog has got to be a relief.
Hang in there.
- TinyDancer(FKASue) - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:50 am:
Get well soon (banned punctuation mark)
- Grandson of Man - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:54 am:
Wishing you a speedy and complete recovery. I know people who beat cancer, they went through radiation, chemo, surgery. You will beat this too.
- Streator Curmudgeon - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:55 am:
Rich, I’ve had cancer twice and beat it both times; you’ll beat it too.
My prayers are with you.
- Cubs in '16 - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:08 am:
All my best Rich.
- JS Mill - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:12 am:
Rich,
Hang in there, I am sending you all the positive energy I can to aid in your speedy recovery!
- Annon'in - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:16 am:
Now we can stop denying the rumors of your impending demise. Good. Provides more time to enjoy the SOX. 2026 election generally on cruise control and/or no one plans to vote. Durkie goes for JB —cha ching. Relax.
Maybe praise the SOX and get of Leo’s Luck to help.
- OneMan - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:17 am:
Hang in there and if anyone offers you playoff tickets and you are not feeling up to going, I can step up for you.
- yinn - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:18 am:
Sending best wishes for a full and speedy recovery.
Your news sounds very much like what a close family member received almost exactly two years ago. He’s doing great today.
- George Ryan Reynolds - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:22 am:
Geez, Rich. Words failing me. Fingers crossed.
At times like these, I turn to the great philosopher Jim Peterik, who urges us to have the Eye of the Tiger…
Risin’ up, back on the street
Did my time, took my chances
Went the distance now I’m back on my feet
Just a man and his will to survive
- froganon - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:22 am:
Play the long game and take care of yourself first. Isabel and others have you covered. Peace and strength to you every day.
- Scoot - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:23 am:
You got this Capfax! Go Sox!
- Jeremy Hornik - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:25 am:
May you have an easy round of treatments and a nice, predictable recovery. Strength and hope to you!
- Norseman - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:32 am:
Best wishes and speedy recovery and relax by watching your Pope Sox continue their playoff run.
- Rudy’s teeth - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:32 am:
All the best to you, Rich, on your journey through treatment and healing. Your readers are pulling for you.
Isabel holds the fort and keeps us all informed with news and articles of the day. Take all the time you need to rest up.
- H-W - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:41 am:
As you may have guessed, I am pretty religious. So I will keep you in my prayers each day as I read herein, and pray you weather this life moment well. I will also pray comfort for those who love you as this passes.
- Techie - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:43 am:
Best wishes for a speedy recovery, Rich.
- West Side the Best Side - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:44 am:
Best wishes for a very successful and speedy recovery.
- Dance Band on the Titanic - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:45 am:
Best wishes for a speedy return to full health.
- Steve - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:49 am:
Get well soon ! We wish you all the best. You just do what you can do and no more .
- AlfondoGonz - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:50 am:
Give ‘em hell, Rich
- 47th Ward - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 10:59 am:
===Love you, brother.===
Same. Will keep sending you positive vibes. Glad you caught it early and that the prognosis is good. As we get older, it’s important to maintain regular medical check ups. Glad you are getting great care and are in a positive state of mind. That is a huge part of the battle.
- Frida's Boss - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 11:05 am:
Rich-
You got this. Stay strong.
- Think Again - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 11:08 am:
Sending prayers and positive thoughts your way.
- Keyrock - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 11:08 am:
Best wishes, sir. And may the Sox bring you joy.
- Proud Papa Bear - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 11:09 am:
In 2013, I was diagnosed with leukemia and was sure I was going to die, no matter what my doctor told me. Three years ago, I celebrated 10 years by announcing it here on this blog and I was moved by the support I got. We have many diverse political perspectives here, but it’s a great and caring community, and it’s a testament to your work, Rich.
Sending strength from Cary!
- Blue Dog - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 11:12 am:
you are in our prayers. Get your rest and eat . eat whatever you crave. it will change from day to day. also. my oncologist insisted I get 8 to 10 minutes of sunshine per day. he was a huge believer in vitamin D. ask your oncologist. but be assured we will be with you on your journey.
- Candy Dogood - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 11:26 am:
Glad you’re feeling better, and glad that the prognosis is good.
- Joseph M - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 11:27 am:
Best wishes for a speedy recovery. Enjoy some rest too!
- Sean Crawford - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 11:33 am:
Wishing you the best Rich.
- Benjamin - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 11:53 am:
I’m sorry to hear that, Rich, but I’m glad to hear that the cancer is treatable and your doctors have a plan. Follow their instructions, rest when you need to, and I look forward to you joining me in the cancer survivors club.
- Lurker - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 12:19 pm:
It sounds like you have the right attitude which honestly, is everything.
After my cancer I always joked that it was a great weight loss program. And I hope you come out the other end with a better appreciation of your health and continually improve your fitness like I finally did. Love and prayers
- Rahm's Parking Meter - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 12:20 pm:
As someone who’s spouse fights cancer, there is another side, you’ll have good days and bad days, but you will get through it. Listen to your body, talk to your doctors and have a speedy recovery.
- Honeybear - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 12:25 pm:
So sorry to hear this. May your journey through it be quick and uneventful. But yeah…it’s gonna suck. So sorry Rich. I’m glad they caught it.
- Mason born - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 12:40 pm:
Sorry to hear that Rich. Hope you have a quick recovery.
There’s a lot about our current time that sucks, but the fact that you can say “I have cancer but I should be fine.” Is definitely not one of them.
- Blitz - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 12:44 pm:
I look forward to the future headline
=Rich to Cancer, Bite Me=
- Shytown - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 12:58 pm:
Treatment today is an amazing thing and it sounds like you caught it early enough. Take the time you need to kick this thing’s ass - we’ll all be here waiting for you.
- Dotnonymous x - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 1:20 pm:
I am sorry you are going through this, Rich…I’m sorry to hear you are not yet fully recovered.
- Skokie Man - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 1:22 pm:
All the best to you and yours, Rich. Thank you for sharing such personal news. I hope that your engagement with this community proves to be restorative as you complete treatment.
- Stephanie Kollmann - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 1:27 pm:
I think the filter got me: best wishes
- Screwtape - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 1:44 pm:
Peace and blessings to you, Rich. Sorry to hear of your diagnosis and my hopes and prayers are being sent your way.
- Lagartha's Shield - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 2:01 pm:
Best wishes for a speedy recovery.
- Jibba - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 2:03 pm:
Cancer can pound sand. Go get ‘em.
- Maywood Johnny - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 3:08 pm:
Peace and a comfortable and speedy recovery!
- Zach - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 3:24 pm:
Wishing you a speedy recovery!
- Carpe GM - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 3:34 pm:
Praying for a comfortable and speedy victory over this, Rich. Keep moving forward. You have many rooting for your health.
- Pot calling kettle - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 4:02 pm:
Get well soon - follow the doctors’ directions.
I was diagnosed with prostate cancer - a diagnosis that began with a PSA test. It was caught early and the cancer removed before it could spread. I’ve been clear for 15 months.
Everyone - please visit your doctor regularly, be sure they are familiar with your personal (and family) history, and get the appropriate tests. Cancer caught early gives you the best shot at a full recovery.
Rich, thanks for sharing this; it will result in other people taking actions that could save their lives.
- Skeptic - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 4:12 pm:
Cancer [banned present tense verb]. Get well Rich, our best wishes are with you.
- Rachel Ventura - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 4:20 pm:
Wishing you a full and speedy recovery!
- G'Kar - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 4:21 pm:
Best of luck, Rich (banned punctuation) You have all of us supporting you (banned punctuation again)
- Proud Sucker - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 4:53 pm:
“I look forward to the future headline
=Rich to Cancer, Bite Me=”
This, 100%. Your attitude is the thing of which you are most in control. Rest, Vitamin D, being outside all help.
You’ve certainly got this.
- Amalia - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 6:11 pm:
sending peace and health. and if you need something, you know to let people know. there’s no one way to be a patient. you do you.
- Boone Logan Square - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 6:12 pm:
As a survivor of many years, I intend to welcome you to that very specific club, Rich. Take what the doctors tell you, and take your time.
- RNUG - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 7:21 pm:
Follow your Doctor’s recommendations. Rest as warranted.
That said, multiple friends have beaten cancer entirely. One friend is still fighting it … according to the doctors he should have died over a year ago. He’s still undergoing treatment, but doing better than anyone expected.
Take care and enjoy every day.
- Which one’s Pink - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:18 pm:
Get well, Rich.
- Leslie K - Tuesday, Oct 6, 26 @ 9:32 pm:
You’ve got this, Rich. And we’ve got you.
- Just Bill - Wednesday, Oct 7, 26 @ 5:16 am:
My very best to you, Rich. Get well.
- West Sider - Wednesday, Oct 7, 26 @ 8:26 am:
Rich, As Warren Zevon said: Enjoy every sandwich. We’re all in your corner.
- NorthSideNoMore - Wednesday, Oct 7, 26 @ 1:51 pm:
Been there (without the chemo), I hope it goes very well and you’re on the mend soon.
- Just Asking - Thursday, Oct 15, 26 @ 5:22 pm:
Sending you positive thoughts and wishes for a speedy recovery, Rich.
- Boone’s is Back - Friday, Oct 16, 26 @ 8:29 am:
Good luck today Rich! You’re a fighter and a champ. Our state needs you. Sending love and prayers.