Ashley Biden Shares Emotional Glimpse of Father’s Cancer Fight
Former President Joe Biden’s daughter, Ashley, offered a rare, moving look at her father’s battle with cancer, highlighting a quiet milestone that marked progress in his treatment.
A Major Milestone: Radiation Therapy Completed
On October 21, 2025, a spokesperson confirmed that Biden, 82, had finished a round of radiation therapy for prostate cancer at Penn Medicine. The milestone brought visible relief and joy to his family, though uncertainty remains about whether further radiation is necessary.
Ashley captured the moment in an Instagram video, showing her father ringing a ceremonial bell—signaling the end of a treatment cycle. He stood surrounded by close family, including former First Lady Jill Biden and their grandchildren. Ashley’s captions praised her father’s strength and thanked the medical team for their care.

Joe Biden rings the bell at Penn Medicine after completing a round of radiation therapy | Source: Instagram/ashleyblazerbiden
Earlier Diagnosis and Treatment
Biden’s cancer journey began publicly in May 2025 after increasing urinary symptoms led to a prostate nodule diagnosis. Follow-up testing revealed a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) and bone metastasis. His office emphasized that the cancer is hormone-sensitive and manageable with proper treatment.
Radiation therapy started quietly weeks before October 11, paired with hormone therapy. Biden and his family remained closely involved in all medical decisions, balancing treatment options carefully.
Head Surgery Sparks Concern
Amid relief over radiation progress, attention shifted to a visible wound on Biden’s head. Observers noticed stitches after a quiet Labor Day church outing, prompting widespread speculation online. A spokesperson later confirmed he had undergone Mohs surgery—a precise skin cancer removal method known for high success and minimal tissue damage.
The procedure differs from his 2023 basal cell carcinoma removal. Mohs surgery removes thin layers of skin one at a time, examining each for remaining cancer cells. It preserves healthy tissue and allows for same-day recovery in most cases. After the procedure, wounds may be stitched, left to heal naturally, or reconstructed depending on size and location.
Healing and Support
Biden appeared in public smiling and interacting with attendees, showing progress in recovery. Aftercare requires keeping the wound bandaged and following medical guidance to prevent complications. Mild discomfort is common, while significant pain is rare and usually signals the need for follow-up care.
Through this journey, Ashley’s post offered a poignant reminder of Biden’s resilience and the family’s unwavering support during a challenging time.