Colin Egglesfield is encouraging others to be proactive about their health after being diagnosed with cancer for the third time.
“‘It’s not the hand you’re dealt because you can’t change that. It’s how you play the cards that matters.’ I found this quote from an interview I did when I was 25 and it has served me well throughout my life, including recently,” Egglesfield, 51, wrote via Instagram on Tuesday, Jan. 21. “Starting this year no has been easier, but in the spirit of what I said in my interview, this is another opportunity to decide who I will choose to be in the face of uncertainty and challenges in my latest diagnosis of cancer.”
Egglesfield noted that doctors caught his “prostate cancer” early a year ago, adding, “(After) doing a lot of research and talking to a lot of health care professionals, I chose to be proactive and have surgery.” I am so grateful for the amazing support and care I have received over the last few months from @cityofhopephx, Dr. Gellhaus and all the nurses, doctors and staff that have been helpful in supporting me during this scary time.”
As he faced his latest health battle, Egglesfield showed support for anyone going through a similar challenge.
“We hope this is a reminder to everyone that you are not alone in whatever you are facing and that it is important to advocate for yourself and your health which includes getting checkups, seeking information and seeking help when you need it!” he shared. “And thank you to everyone who has supported me and expressed your congratulations! I feel it and every day I am getting healthier and stronger. I’m still a little sore but I’m making progress and I’m determined to come back stronger and healthier than ever, especially with the help of my sexy walk :).”
Egglesfield concluded: “It all starts with a decision to commit to what you decide to be with whatever you’re facing. I choose to be FUN, FAITH, COURAGE, GRACE and INSPIRATION. … And guys, be sure to check your PSA regularly. It saved my life!”
The actor was previously diagnosed with testicular cancer a few months after he started playing Josh Madden All My Children in 2006. After receiving the news, Egglesfield discovered that the cancer had spread to his other testicle, despite having had surgery to remove it.
“After being diagnosed with it, it’s just a very scary experience because it’s all fear of the unknown,” Egglesfield said exclusively. Us Weekly in 2019 after opening up publicly about his health struggles. “I didn’t know what to expect, so reading about someone who had been through (a) similar experience gave me the courage and inspiration to know that if he could do it and go on and survive and do what he did, they It gave me hope and inspiration that I could do the same.”
Egglesfield – who is also known for roles in Melrose Place, Something Borrowed and The Client List – credited his career with helping him get through the toughest days.
“It really helped me get through my cancer experience because I just knew I had to become a different person. And one of the biggest pieces of advice I got was from my mom after I was diagnosed for the second time,” he recalls. “At that point, I literally thought it could be the end. I remember calling her one day and breaking down and she said, ‘Colin, you might not be able to handle this. But you must be a fighter. You must put on your armor and you must go to battle now.’ Once she gave me that context, it made me realize, you know what? Yes, because otherwise it’s too overwhelming and can overwhelm me. So that really helped.”
