Former President Joe Biden announced Sunday that his ongoing battle with prostate cancer will necessitate a reduction in promotional activities for his forthcoming memoir, "Promise Me, America." The book is scheduled for release on November 17.
Biden, who disclosed his cancer diagnosis in May of the previous year, stated on social media that "some days are better than others" and that while the illness "hasn't stopped me," it "sometimes slows me down." Consequently, he anticipates being unable to engage in as many conversations about his book as originally planned, expressing hope that "the words on the page speak for themselves."
The memoir is described as covering his years as president, the challenges faced, and the decisions made, reflecting on the nation's identity, values, and global role. Biden also conveyed his "faith in the American people and the great American experiment in self-governance and democracy."
He provided an update on his health, noting that his doctors are encouraged by his response to treatment and expressing gratitude for the public's support. "My doctors continue to be encouraged by how I've responded to treatment," he said. "And the prayers and kind words and well wishes from so many of you have meant more to me and Jill and our family than you can ever know."
Biden's son, Hunter Biden, had previously revealed in an interview that the cancer had spread to his father's bones, describing the experience as "very painful and it's very debilitating in many respects." Former First Lady Jill Biden also commented in June that her husband would "live with cancer till the rest of his life," differentiating the condition from an initial prostate cancer diagnosis that could be cured. The former president has previously undergone radiation and hormone treatment, as well as surgery for cancerous skin cells in September.
Despite the health challenges, Hunter Biden noted that his father remains engaged, speaking publicly on issues important to him, stating, "He's still doing his thing. He so believes in this country."