John J. York, the beloved actor known for his role as Mac Scorpio on “General Hospital,” recently opened up about his emotional return to the show following a challenging battle with cancer. The 65-year-old actor was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome and smoldering multiple myeloma in late 2022, conditions that required extensive treatment, including bone marrow transplants.
York’s journey began with a routine checkup that led to the discovery of these two types of blood and bone marrow cancer. Myelodysplastic syndrome is a condition where immature blood cells in the bone marrow fail to mature into healthy blood cells. Smoldering multiple myeloma, on the other hand, is a slow-growing form of cancer affecting plasma cells, which can lead to an overproduction of a specific type of antibody.
In an emotional appearance on “Good Morning America,” York shared the overwhelming support he received from fans and the public after announcing his diagnosis. He was particularly moved by the number of people who signed up to donate bone marrow, inspired by his story. “I made the announcement, and it has helped. So many people have joined the registry just to help save someone’s life,” York said, fighting back tears.
After undergoing seven days a week of chemotherapy at Vanderbilt University in Tennessee, York was eventually cleared to fly to California and resume filming for “General Hospital.” In November 2023, he received the life-changing news that a perfect 20-year-old bone marrow donor match had been found. The National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) informed him of the match, leaving York speechless and emotional.
York’s return to “General Hospital” was met with immense support from his colleagues and fans. He had taken a hiatus from the show in early September to focus on his treatment. During this time, he connected with Be the Match, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping patients find bone marrow or stem cell donor matches. Initially hesitant to share his diagnosis publicly, York eventually realized the potential impact of using his platform to raise awareness and encourage others to become donors.
In an interview with ET’s Nischelle Turner, York discussed his decision to go public with his diagnosis. “I did want to keep it private. When I was diagnosed back in December of 2022, I told my wife, ‘Let’s just keep it close and go through the process. I don’t want to tell everybody. I don’t want everybody to fight,'” York shared. However, after speaking with a representative from Be the Match, he understood the importance of using his platform to make a difference.
York’s announcement led to an outpouring of support and a significant increase in people joining the bone marrow donor registry. “I have goosebumps about that because it was overwhelming to me and my family. So I’m glad I did it,” York said. He encouraged everyone to visit Be the Match’s website to learn more about the registration process and how to become a donor.
Reflecting on his long tenure on “General Hospital,” York expressed deep gratitude for the support he received from his TV family. “Everybody has been very welcoming, very supportive,” he said, choking up. “I can’t tell you how nice it’s been, the support that I’ve gotten.” York has played Mac Scorpio since 1991, and his return to the show was highly anticipated by fans and colleagues alike.
York’s journey has been a testament to his resilience and the power of community support. Despite the challenges, he remained positive and focused on taking things one day at a time. “My philosophy was always, ‘One day at a time, let’s just get through today,'” he said. This mindset helped him navigate the rigorous treatment process and ultimately return to the show he loves.
As York continues his recovery, he remains hopeful and grateful for the second chance at life. He looks forward to meeting his bone marrow donor in person one day to express his gratitude. For now, he is back on set, bringing his character Mac Scorpio to life once again, much to the delight of “General Hospital” fans.
York’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have by sharing their journey and encouraging others to take action. His return to “General Hospital” is not just a personal victory but a celebration of the collective effort to support those battling cancer.
