In a recent video posted on social media, General Hospital star John J. York revealed that he has been diagnosed with a blood and bone marrow disorder. York, who has been a part of the show since 1991 and plays the character of Malcolm Scorpio, explained that he was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and multiple smoldering myeloma.
For those unfamiliar with these conditions, myelodysplastic syndromes are a group of cancers that occur when immature blood cells in the bone marrow do not become healthy blood cells. Multiple smoldering myeloma is a precancerous condition that affects certain proteins in the blood and can increase plasma cells in the bone marrow.
York shared that he has been undergoing various treatments, including bone marrow biopsies and chemotherapy. He is also in the process of finding a potential donor for a blood stem cell transplant. The actor expressed his gratitude for the support he has received and assured fans that this is not goodbye, but rather a temporary break from the show.
In a more recent update, York revealed that a potential donor has been found. He expressed his gratitude and said that testing will begin soon, with the transplant planned for November. Emotionally, he thanked the potential donor for giving him the opportunity to spend more time with his loved ones and enjoy the beauty of life.
York’s announcement comes just days after his General Hospital co-star Billy Miller tragically passed away by suicide. Miller, who portrayed the characters of Jason Morgan and Drew Cain on the show, had been battling manic depression and bipolar disorder. In response to Miller’s death, Maurice Benard, who plays Sonny Corinthos, shared an important mental health message with fans. Benard has been open about his own journey with bipolar disorder, and he emphasized the importance of understanding and supporting those struggling with mental illness.
Benard encouraged people to show love, patience, and understanding to individuals going through darkness and pain. He also stressed the significance of seeking professional help. To anyone who may be suffering, he offered words of hope, reminding them that they can get through it and that life has a way of rewarding them.
It’s heartwarming to see John J. York’s strength and determination in the face of his diagnosis, as well as the support from his General Hospital co-stars and fans. Let’s rally behind him and raise awareness about blood and bone marrow disorders, and the importance of mental health support.
