In the wake of the tragic death of beloved actor Chadwick Boseman, his wife, Simone Ledward Boseman, has taken up the mantle of advocacy for early detection of colorectal cancer. Her mission is both personal and universal, as she hopes to prevent others from experiencing the pain and loss she has endured.
Colorectal cancer is often termed a “silent killer” due to its late onset of noticeable symptoms. This type of cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in men under 50 and the second among women in the same age group. The numbers are even more alarming for Black Americans, who have a higher rate of occurrence than any other racial or ethnic group in the United States.
Chadwick Boseman, acclaimed for his role as King T’Challa in the movie “Black Panther,” among other notable roles, tragically passed away in 2020 from colorectal cancer at the young age of 43. His death sent shockwaves throughout the world, not only for the loss of a talented actor but also for the stark reminder of the deadly nature of this disease.
Simone Ledward Boseman, Chadwick’s wife, had been his primary caregiver during his four-year battle with the disease. She chose to keep the diagnosis private, a decision she later explained was based on their shared desire for privacy and the focus on Chadwick’s craft rather than his illness.
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Following Chadwick’s death, Simone has emerged as a vocal advocate for early detection of colorectal cancer. She has bravely shared her story, shedding light on their private struggle in an effort to raise awareness and potentially save lives.
As part of her advocacy efforts, Simone Ledward Boseman visited the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. She was the keynote speaker at the 5th Annual Patient and Family Forum at the Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer Center, one of the first centers in the U.S. dedicated to treating both colon and rectal cancer in patients under 50.
During her speech, Simone stressed the importance of early detection, stating, “I’ve seen how this disease moves, and I know now how treatable it is when it’s detected early.”
Young-onset colorectal cancer is a growing concern, with the numbers rising by about one to two percent each year. The reason for this rise remains unknown, further emphasizing the need for research and awareness.
The statistics and personal stories underline the urgent need for increased awareness and early detection of colorectal cancer. As Simone Ledward Boseman poignantly stated, “Colorectal cancer is killing young people across the country, and most are vastly underestimating their risk.”
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Simone’s advocacy work underscores the importance of regular screenings, especially for those under the age of 50 and those belonging to high-risk racial and ethnic groups. She is dedicated to spreading knowledge and promoting early detection, which can save lives.
In honor of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute will be lit up in blue every night. This visual reminder serves as a symbol of the ongoing battle against this deadly disease and the urgent need for awareness and action.
While Chadwick Boseman’s life was tragically cut short by colorectal cancer, his legacy lives on through the tireless advocacy work of his wife, Simone Ledward Boseman. Her mission to raise awareness and promote early detection of this disease is a testament to their shared strength and dedication to helping others.
Colorectal cancer, though a silent and deadly disease, can be combated through early detection and increased awareness. The work of advocates like Simone Ledward Boseman is vital in this fight. As we remember Chadwick Boseman, let us also honor his legacy by taking action and spreading awareness about the urgent need for early detection of colorectal cancer.