Let me tell you about Scott Hamilton, the legendary figure skater and Olympic gold medalist. Back in 2004, Scott faced one of the biggest challenges of his life when he was diagnosed with a brain tumor. But here's the thing—he didn’t face it alone. He leaned on his faith to guide him through the storm.
Scott’s health battles began way back in 1997 when he was diagnosed with testicular cancer. At 65 years old, he’s had quite the journey. "I really just wanted to survive, you know?" he recalled during an episode of The Jennifer Hudson Show on Wednesday, April 18. That was a pivotal moment for him. Surgery and chemotherapy became part of his life, but it didn’t break him. Instead, it made him stronger.
Scott’s health challenges didn’t stop there. In 2004, 2010, and 2016, he was diagnosed with brain tumors. For the first two, he underwent multiple surgeries to remove them. But in 2016, he made the decision to not pursue treatment for the third tumor. It was a bold move, but one he felt was right for him.
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A Moment of Faith
When Scott received his first brain tumor diagnosis, it was a life-changing moment. "It just ignited my faith," he reflected. "It was one of those things—I told my wife, and without skipping a beat, she just took my hands and started to pray." Scott went on to say that it was the most powerful moment he’d ever experienced. "I’ve had a lot of big moments, but that was probably the biggest," he admitted.
Scott’s Approach to His Most Recent Diagnosis
Scott explained how he reacted when doctors asked if he wanted to treat his most recent tumor. "I’m gonna go home and I’m gonna get strong," he said. The doctors followed up with, "What does that look like?" Scott’s response was simple yet profound: "I have no idea. I’m just feeling this." It was his way of trusting in the process and staying present.
Back in February, Scott opened up about his health. He shared that he isn’t completely opposed to treating the tumor in the future. "The ace I have up my sleeve is that now there is a targeted radiation therapy that will shrink the tumor," he told People. "And in that, I can avoid a lot of other things like surgery and chemo." Scott’s approach is all about being in the moment and using the information available to make the best decision when the time comes.
It’s been eight years since Scott decided not to seek treatment for his brain tumor, and he credits his faith for his continued health. "I’ve never been stronger in my faith, I’ve never been stronger emotionally or intellectually," he shared. It’s a testament to the power of belief and inner strength.
A Family That Supports Him Through It All
Scott is incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of his wife, Tracie Hamilton, and their kids, Aidan, Maxx, Jean Paul, and Evelyne. "And to have my children and just how amazing they are, and my wife and how amazing she is? I never would’ve thought to dream any of it," he said. His family has been his rock through every challenge, and their love and support have been instrumental in his journey.
