alternatehistory.com

December 19, 1968

Humphrey's Cancer Is Terminal

Vice President Hubert Humphrey has been diagnosed with an inoperable tumor in his pelvis that his surgeon believes is “terminal.” The extent of the tumor was discovered after Vice President underwent surgery to remove his bladder. During the surgery, doctors discovered that Mr. Humphrey’s tumor has now spread to fill almost the entire pelvis. Humphrey’s cancer is reportedly very aggressive, and it is uncertain how much longer he will have to live. [1] Some believe that his stay at a motel near Monroe, Michigan on the very night of the Fermi disaster may have caused his cancer.

Humphrey has undergone a series of treatments, which are hoped to keep him alive beyond Inauguration Day. Humphrey reportedly underwent radiation treatment in early September. Humphrey underwent a course of chemotherapy in November, shortly after the election. At that time, the President-elect was treated with an aggressive course of an experimental drug called thiotepa, which was administered by catheter directly into his bladder [2].

In the event that Humphrey becomes President, some are wondering how long he will be able to serve until he either dies in office or becomes incapacitated. Humphrey’s doctor said that while there is no way of making a prediction about Humphrey's chances of survival, chemotherapy “very seldom, if ever” can eradicate such a cancer. However, his doctor believes there is still hope that the treatments will extend the Vice President’s life. [1]