Ben Wilson, creator of the popular podcast “How to Take Over the World,” is currently undergoing treatment for stage 4 high-grade neuroendocrine carcinoma. After experiencing unexplained fatigue and physical pain, Wilson sought medical care that revealed multiple tumors in his lungs, liver, spine, and brain. Despite a terminal diagnosis, Wilson continues to produce content, supported by a community that raised almost $400,000 to assist with medical expenses and specialized treatments.
Diagnosis and Medical Outlook
The path to diagnosis began when Wilson, a resident of Orem, Utah, noticed his stamina during daily walks in Provo Canyon had severely declined. According to Wilson, he typically avoids medical visits, but the persistence of aches and pain prompted him to consult a primary care physician. A physical examination revealed an abdominal lump, leading to a rapid succession of diagnostic tests.
Within hours of a CT scan, doctors identified masses in his lungs and liver. Subsequent imaging confirmed the cancer had metastasized to his spine and brain. Wilson was diagnosed with stage 4 high-grade neuroendocrine carcinoma, an aggressive form of the disease. While medical professionals initially provided a prognosis of approximately one year, Wilson has expressed gratitude for his medical team and the availability of modern cancer research and therapies.
Did you know?
Wilson’s podcast, “How to Take Over the World,” explores the lives and leadership lessons of history’s great leaders. It became a top 100 podcast before he transitioned to producing it full-time last year.
Community Support and Financial Impact
Following his diagnosis, Wilson faced the challenge of balancing his privacy with the need to inform his audience about his reduced capacity for recording new episodes. With the encouragement of close friends, he launched a GoFundMe campaign to manage the financial burden of his care. The response was immediate, with the podcast community contributing almost $400,000 in a matter of days.
These funds provide the family with access to specialized medical interventions not covered by standard insurance. Specifically, the donations will support the use of Tarlatamab, a medication designed to potentially extend survival rates by a year or two. Because of the public visibility of his case, Wilson noted that some drug companies have also reached out to assist in lowering costs for his treatment. He plans to undergo four rounds of chemotherapy before beginning this specialized medication in approximately six weeks.
Future Advocacy and Sustaining the Podcast
Wilson is currently navigating the unpredictable nature of his illness. He abandoned his initial goal of “every day better than the last,” acknowledging that cancer treatment creates significant fluctuations in his health. “Sometimes making it through the day is a victory,” he stated.
Looking ahead, Wilson expressed a desire to leverage his platform to assist others who face similar health crises without the same level of financial or community support. He has encouraged those who wish to donate to his cause to consider supporting the Huntsman Cancer Institute instead. Despite the uncertainty, Wilson intends to continue recording his podcast, viewing the creative process as a form of therapy that helps him manage the stress of his ongoing treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Ben Wilson’s diagnosis? Wilson has stage 4 high-grade neuroendocrine carcinoma, which has spread to his lungs, liver, spine, and brain.
- How can people help? Wilson has suggested that supporters consider donating to the Huntsman Cancer Institute to aid others undergoing cancer treatment.
- Will “How to Take Over the World” continue? Yes, Wilson confirmed that he plans to continue producing episodes as his health allows, as it serves as a therapeutic outlet for him.
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