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Reality stars Duane “Dog” Chapman and his wife Beth Chapman have been best friends and partners in everything life has thrown at them over the years, but the two are facing their biggest challenge yet as Beth battles throat cancer.
In his first full interview since his wife’s diagnosis, Chapman has opened to People about how the two are handling the news and preparing for the road ahead. “When we made a pledge many years ago, I said I’d love her in sickness and in health until death do us part. And that truth has really, really come alive in my mind. And I have to stand on that; I gave her an oath that I would love her forever. And thank God it’s not till death do us part at this point.”
In mid-September the news broke that Beth had been diagnosed with stage 2 throat cancer, and shortly after she had surgery to remove the tumor in her throat. Although she is fighting, Beth is honest that the recovery has not been easy. “I take it one day at a time. And I believe in the power of prayer,” she said, while her husband added, “She’s very tough, and she can beat this.”
He also revealed that now all of the focus is on his wife, and he makes sure she is not worried about him or other trivial things. “If I have a pain — like a back pain or something — I don’t tell her anymore. My little pains are nothing compared to what she’s going through,” he stated.
“I don’t want anybody to feel sorry for me, because I’m not the one who has it,” he adds. “I just want our fans to say prayers for Beth.”
As Beth continues her battle, the two do have a message for fans which is “Early detection is key.” “I probably had the scratchy throat for a year,” Beth revealed. “When something feels wrong, you need to get it checked immediately. That’s the lesson here. Also, everyone needs to pay attention to what you put in your body. Your diet is so important.” Dog added, “You know, on every pack of cigarettes, there’s a warning that they cause cancer. But I think they need to do that with food, so people know what they’re putting into their bodies.”
Now, the two are sharing this part of their lives in a return to TV and A&E with Dog and Beth: Fight of Their Lives which premieres on November 27 at 9pm.
Telisa Carter
Telisa enjoys learning and writing about all things entertainment in the world of Hollywood. When she isn't catching up on her favorite TV shows, she likes to read, and obsess over all things football.