'Full House' Actor Dave Coulier Diagnosed with Cancer
Dave Coulier, renowned for his role as Uncle Joey on “Full House,” has publicly shared his battle with stage 3 non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a form of blood cancer. The revelation came during his appearance on “Today,” where he informed co-anchor Hoda Kotb of his diagnosis five weeks prior.
"In this brief span, I've undergone three surgeries, faced chemotherapy, and lost some hair," he remarked, gently patting his head. "My appearance is akin to a newly hatched bird now, and it's undoubtedly been a whirlwind."
Coulier explained he has "B cell lymphoma," which he characterized as "aggressive."
"The lymphoma's rapid growth in my groin was alarming, prompting me to say, 'This isn't right, it feels like there's a golf ball here,'" he recounted to Kotb. "We biopsied it, removed it, and the doctors informed me, 'We wish the news was better, but it's B cell lymphoma. Immediate chemotherapy is necessary.'"
According to the American Cancer Society, non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is among the most prevalent cancers in the U.S., representing about 4% of all cases.
Coulier recalled being alone at home when he received the diagnosis. When he shared the news with his wife, Melissa, she initially thought he was joking. They then faced the challenge of determining the cancer's stage.
Fortunately, tests revealed his bone marrow was unaffected. "This increased the curability rate to over 90%, making it highly treatable," he noted.
After a bout with a cold, the swelling in his groin rapidly increased within five days. Despite favorable blood work, scans indicated "hot spots" in his neck and groin.
Coulier has completed one chemotherapy session and is set for another soon. He humorously mentioned trimming his hair in advance, which improves his fit in a hockey helmet and enhances his "aerodynamics on the ice."
A passionate hockey enthusiast, Coulier remains optimistic and active, aiming for full remission by the conclusion of his treatment in February.