Dave Coulier has been diagnosed with Stage 3 non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a type of blood cancer that starts in the lymphatic system.
The 65-year-old actor and comedian, best known for his portrayal of Joey Gladstone on the ABC sitcom “Full House” and the Netflix revival “Fuller House,” spoke at length about his diagnosis during an appearance on NBC’s “Today” that aired Wednesday.
In the interview, Coulier said he sought medical treatment in October after coming down with a cold and discovering a lump “the size of a golf ball” in his groin. Since receiving the diagnosis, he’s undergone multiple surgeries and the first of six planned rounds of chemotherapy, with the second scheduled for later this week.
“When I have to rest, I listen to my body, and when I need to step on the gas pedal, I do that,” he said. “If I can help someone who’s watching today get an early screening, a breast exam, a colonoscopy, a prostate exam ― go do it. Because for me, early detection meant everything.”
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In a separate interview with People, Coulier said he’s been pulling inspiration from several of his family members, including his older sister, Karen, who was also recently diagnosed with cancer. He also credited his wife of 10 years, Melissa Bring, and son Luc ― who is expecting his first child ― with helping him stay positive.
“I have my good days. I have my bad days,” the Detroit native explained. “Some days are nauseous and dizzy, and then there’s other days where the steroids kick in, and I feel like I have a ton of energy. I actually skated yesterday with some friends here in Detroit. We just went and skated around and shot pucks, and it was wonderful just to be out there doing something that I love and just trying to stay focused on all the great stuff that I have in my life.”
Though doctors have described his cancer as “very aggressive,” Coulier said it has a “90% curability” rate and that he’s expected to be in “full remission” by February of next year.
Still, in his “Today” interview, he appeared to be maintaining a pragmatic outlook toward his health.
“I’ve had an incredible life. I’ve had the most amazing people in my life,” he said. “This has been an extraordinary journey, and I’m OK if this is the end of the journey.”
Watch Dave Coulier’s “Today” interview below.
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