Rex (left) chats with Jerry Bookin-Weiner and wife Hedy at Michigan nationals athletes banquet.
WMA/USATF masters athlete and officiating legend
Rex Harvey posted fabulous news Saturday on Facebook. Two years after being diagnosed, he appears to have conquered a rare form of appendix cancer. Rex, 70 and now living in Arizona, wrote: “Got really good news in Houston yesterday. Colonoscopy was clear and my cancer blood indicators are all improving and the two tumors that they could not cut out last February because they were too close to pancreas and liver are unchanged. [Doctor] was pleased, but not as much as I. No more treatments at all for now, only another check in 4 to 6 months. No restrictions on diet, activity or anything else for now. I can not thank all of you out there [enough] for all of your prayers and other positive support that you have given me over the past two years. With your help, we have been successful. Thank you all so much.” Among gleeful reactions from around the world: “Fanblinkingtastic!” When he first announced what he thought was colon cancer, Rex said: “So far, I have had no mental problems facing this. It is what it is and instead of wasting energy worrying about it, I would rather use that energy to deal with it. Possibly I am too dumb to worry.” Now his energies can be focused on the future — possibly as USATF masters national chair. On to Perth and Orlando.
8 Responses
Yay, Rex! Absolutely wonderful news!
The term I use is “reluctant hero.” When you’re stricken with cancer, suffer a life-threatening infection, or are diagnosed with serious lung disease, you have to become a hero. You don’t want to be heroic, don’t feel particularly heroic, but that is your lot in life for an unspecified period of time.
Rex has been heroic, and now he is out of the woods. I admire your heroism, Rex, even though you didn’t sign up for the job. My best to you.
Rex, Glad to hear the great news!!!! I was confident that you would meet the challenge.
You have always been a champion and hero to everyone.
Great news Rex!
HAPPY FOR YOU ABOUT THE GREAT NEWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It’s the Prayer from all who know and love you…I never doubted you would beat this thing…you are of great value to so many..Peace & Blessings
Such wonderful news! Continued prayers for top health!
Good on Ya Rex…So happy for you..
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