Ernie Harwell Diagnosed With Bile Duct Cancer

91-year-old Ernie Harwell, Hall of Fame broadcaster and the voice of the Detroit Tigers for over four decades and well beyond retiring from broadcasting in 2002, has been diagnosed with bile cancer.

In Friday’s edition of the Detroit Free Press, Harwell revealed he has an incurable tumor around his bile duct.

In a phone interview Harwell told the paper:

“We don’t know how long this lasts.  It could be a year. It could be much less than a year, much less than a half a year. Who knows?

“Whatever’s in store, I’m ready for a new adventure. That’s the way I look at it.”

He added:

“I think that when I heard the news — that I had this cancer — that I had a feeling of security and serenity, but I had a feeling of acceptance because of my belief in Jesus and the Lord.”

Harwell has elected not to undergo any surgery, nor chemotherapy or any radiation treatment and will remain at home to spend time with family and friends during this time.

He and his wife Lulu celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary this past Sunday and he tells the paper he feels really good:

“I really feel good. I’ve got a great attitude. I just look forward to a new adventure. God gives us so many adventures, and I’ve had some great ones. It’s been a terrific life. Of course, the best thing that ever happened to me was my wife, Lulu. I’m just happy that we were able to reach our 68th wedding anniversary.”