The actor, who is well-known for his work on “General Hospital,” gives an update on his health. In this most recent statement, find out the reason John J. York’s taking a brief vacation from the daytime soap.
Actor John J. York Opens Up About 2 Blood and Bone Marrow Disorders
General Hospital star John J. York, 64, recently disclosed his battle with two blood and bone marrow disorders. He provided an update on his condition via video on X, explaining that he’s taking a brief break from the show due to these diagnoses. In December ’22, he was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and multiple smoldering myeloma, both challenging blood and bone marrow disorders.
“I said I was going to give you an update on the reason I’m taking a little hiatus from General Hospital and here it is,” he said. “So last December of ’22, I was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndromes, or MDS, and multiple smoldering myeloma — two blood and bone marrow disorders.”
Hey gang, here’s the update, Check out @bethematch if you want to support https://t.co/AxA8xTbDcq pic.twitter.com/ZBinOwIrpd
— John J York (@JohnJYork) September 13, 2023
What is MDS, or myelodysplastic syndrome?
Myelodysplastic syndrome, often abbreviated as MDS, is a form of cancer characterized by its disruption of the normal process of blood stem cells developing into healthy blood cells. Although relatively rare, MDS warrants prompt medical attention, as healthcare providers may recommend treatments aimed at slowing down the progression of the disease.
Individuals with MDS may experience a variety of symptoms, including but not limited to breathing difficulties, weakness, pale skin, pinpoint-sized skin spots, frequent infections, and fevers. This condition can have multiple underlying causes, including genetic factors such as Fanconi anemia, dyskeratosis congenita, and diamond-blackfan anemia.
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Treatment for MDS is tailored to the specific type of MDS, the patient’s age, and their overall health. Options may include chemotherapy, immunosuppressive therapy, and even stem cell transplants.
Given the potential for MDS to lead to various health complications, it is strongly recommended that individuals consult with a healthcare provider before embarking on any treatment regimen. This proactive approach ensures the most suitable and effective management of this challenging condition.
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SOURCE – Cleveland Clinic
More About His Condition
‘Over the past several months, John J. York has undergone three bone marrow biopsies, numerous chemotherapy treatments, with another one scheduled in a couple of weeks, and he is approaching a blood stem cell transplant,’ York mentioned.
The soap opera star also disclosed that he has been collaborating with Be The Match to search for a potential donor within their registry. He encouraged others to consider becoming donors by visiting bethematch.org/matchformac, emphasizing that this effort could benefit not only him but also thousands of other individuals in need of a donor (please note, potential donors must be between 18-40 years old).
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In a reassuring message to his fans, the TV actor stated, “I just want to say thanks for all the support over the years. This isn’t a farewell; it’s more like a ‘see you later.’ I’ll need to take a break from General Hospital for a minimum of three, possibly four months, but rest assured, I will return.”
In conclusion, he expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thanks a lot. Check out Be the Match. Do whatever you can. Thanks for your patience, thanks for your time, thanks for your prayers. I’ll keep you updated. Talk to you soon.”
John J. York is widely recognized for his portrayal of Mac Scorpio on ABC’s General Hospital, a role he has played in nearly 650 episodes of the daytime soap since the character’s debut in 1991.
