In a rare moment of real-time health news on live television, FOX29 Philadelphia’s veteran host Mike Jerrick received an unexpected diagnosis during a segment on “Good Day Philadelphia.” While chatting with dermatologist Dr. Joanna Walker, Jerrick learned he has basal cell carcinoma, the most common—and thankfully very treatable—form of skin cancer.
The discovery happened right on camera when Dr. Walker examined a suspicious spot on Jerrick’s elbow. Despite having noticed the blemish before, Jerrick never imagined it could be cancerous. “I did say we should have her bring her \[micro]scope because I wanted to check out a couple of things on my arms, so that part was planned, but I never really thought it was going to be skin cancer,” Jerrick admitted on air, reflecting the shock many of us feel when faced with an unexpected health scare.
Dr. Walker quickly put the diagnosis in perspective. “It has all the features of the most common type of skin cancer, which is also very treatable when it’s caught early,” she explained. She advised that the cancerous spot would need to be surgically removed—“cut and stitched”—to prevent it from growing and affecting healthy skin. Thankfully, basal cell carcinoma is known to be slow-growing and very unlikely to spread, a reassuring fact for Jerrick and viewers alike.
While the news surprised the popular anchor, he took it in stride. “When she blurted it out, I didn’t get alarmed or anything. It was just like, ‘Oh dang, I should have done this a long time ago.’ I was more shocked that she said she was going to cut it out instead of burn it off — that’s where I got surprised,” he shared candidly.
This diagnosis is especially poignant given Jerrick’s recent battle with prostate cancer in 2024, which sidelined him for several weeks. The local community has rallied around the beloved newsman, flooding social media with heartfelt messages of support and prayers for a quick recovery.
“Thank you, Mike, for sharing & bringing awareness! Keeping you in my thoughts & prayers 🙏,” one well-wisher commented. Another added, “Many many prayers @MikeFOX29 wish you the very best and a speedy recovery. Take care and many well wishes 🙏♥️🙏.” Others recounted their own or their loved ones’ experiences, underscoring the importance of early detection and proper treatment.
One viewer offered a personal note, “I didn’t know this. I hope he had it removed. My husband had it in 2004 and was advised to get the prostate removed rather than mess around with radiation. He did & he’s still good.” Another chimed in with praise for the care providers, “Doc Lee is a great guy. He and his team did the same work on me 10 years ago. Tell Mike get well and back to work soon!”
Jerrick’s openness serves as a vital reminder that skin cancer, though common, is no joke—and early detection saves lives. In an age where so many of us spend hours outdoors or under harsh sun exposure, it’s a timely call to action to be vigilant about our skin health.
As Jerrick prepares for surgery, his candidness and calm reaction offer a reassuring example for anyone who might face a similar diagnosis. The conservative values of personal responsibility and facing challenges head-on shine through here—Mike Jerrick’s experience is a wake-up call to all Americans: take care of your health, get checked early, and never take your well-being for granted.
