The Human Side of Cancer: Reflections on Hank Green’s Diagnosis.

Hank Green’s Cancer Diagnosis: A Philosophical Reflection on Identity and Mortality

The Diagnosis

Hank Green, a best-selling author and YouTube star, recently announced on his YouTube channel, Vlogbrothers, that he has been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a form of cancer. While acknowledging that his diagnosis is “bad news,” he also stated that it is one of the most treatable cancers, offering a positive outlook on his health. As someone who has dedicated his life to educating and entertaining millions of followers with his online videos and novels, his announcement is not only an update on his health but a reflection on his identity.

The Human Side of a Cancer Journey

Hank Green’s candid video sharing his cancer journey sheds light on the impact a cancer diagnosis has on an individual’s identity. In his videos, Green speaks about the fear of losing his identity, and how cancer has hijacked it. His statement, “I want to be fun, goofy science guy, not struggling with anxiety, cancer guy,” is a reflection of the human side of a cancer journey. Cancer not only brings physical pain and suffering, but it also diverts our attention towards the vulnerability of our human identity in the face of mortality.

A Philosophical Reflection

The announcement of Green’s diagnosis raises more profound philosophical questions about the human condition, mainly the threat of our mortality and the nature of our identity. Throughout history, philosophers have aimed to answer questions about the meaning of life. Cancer diagnosis highlights these existential questions: Who are we? Why are we here? And, what is the purpose of life? When facing cancer, these questions become more acute. The threat of death forces us to contemplate the nature of our existence, which gives our human condition meaning and purpose.

Editorial and Advice

Hank Green’s openness about his experience with cancer should be applauded. As a beloved figure in the online community, his vulnerability encourages others to open up and share their stories, ultimately breaking the stigma attached to cancer. As he said, “everyone deserves a chance to have their own journey with cancer,” reducing the ‘otherness’ often attributed to cancer patients.

In conclusion, Green’s cancer diagnosis reminds us that life is fragile, and mortality is inevitable. His journey is a reminder to us to cherish every moment of our lives, to be kind to one another, and to pursue our passions relentlessly. We should take comfort in knowing that even though our identity may be hijacked by cancer, it is not a permanent state. Through Green’s journey, we learn that we can redefine ourselves and rediscover joy in our lives.