Dear Cathedral Parish Family,
Archbishop Kurtz of Louisville, who was Bishop in Knoxville before his appointment to Louisville, has announced some very sad news today about his health. Recently, he has been diagnosed with cancer and will be moving to North Carolina temporarily so that he can be close to Duke University Hospital for his treatment. I am including his statement released today in Louisville and I would encourage you all to pray for his healing and recovery.
In Christ,
Fr. David
Very Rev. David A. Boettner, V.G.
Vicar General- Roman Catholic Diocese of Knoxville
Rector- Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus
Statement of Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz, Archbishop of Louisville.
I would like to share some news about my health in today’s Briefing. (This information also will be included in a letter to the faithful that will appear in The Record tomorrow.)
Over the past few months, I have had some health issues that have resulted in medical tests and hospitalizations, and I can now confirm the diagnosis and the treatment plan. I have been diagnosed with urothelial carcinoma in my bladder and prostate and will take part in a treatment plan that includes immunotherapy and chemotherapy for at least 12 weeks. I am very grateful to Dr. Dan George, chief oncologist of the Duke University Cancer Institute, and his team, who will administer and oversee this treatment. At the end of the treatment, I will have surgery to have my bladder and prostate removed.
I feel well, and with the encouragement of Dr. George, I have remained active during this time. While the doctor gives me good cause for optimism, there are always dangers and unexpected issues that can arise during cancer treatment, so I ask for your continued prayers.
In order to facilitate this therapy regimen and deal with any side effects, I will remain in North Carolina during the entire length of the treatment. During this time, I will be in regular contact with Father Martin Linebach, Vicar General, and Dr. Brian Reynolds, Chancellor, in order to ensure that proper pastoral leadership and care is provided within the Archdiocese. I also have been in touch with Archbishop Christophe Pierre, the Papal Nuncio to the United States, and he is supportive of the plan I have developed.
Needless to say, I will miss the many opportunities I have to visit parishes and talk with so many of you at upcoming events this summer and fall. You will be in my prayers. Please keep me in yours.