By Belize Live News Staff: Dr. Cecilio Eck, a beloved pediatrician who captured the nation’s hearts by surviving a severe COVID-19 infection in 2021, is now facing another formidable health challenge: stage four adenocarcinoma cancer.
Dr. Eck’s diagnosis came unexpectedly during a routine heart scan at Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) where a new CT machine detected nodules in his lungs. Further tests revealed tumors throughout his body, including his lungs, liver, pelvis, bones, and ribs.
Despite the devastating news, Dr. Eck remains remarkably asymptomatic, with the exception of a strained shoulder that was initially misdiagnosed as a muscle spasm. He is currently undergoing biopsies and further testing to determine the cancer’s origin before beginning treatment.
This isn’t the first time a prominent Belizean doctor has faced cancer after surviving a severe COVID-19 infection. Dr. Fernando Cuellar, who played a crucial role in Dr. Eck’s COVID treatment, sadly passed away from cancer earlier this year.
Addressing concerns about a potential link between COVID-19 and cancer, Dr. Eck acknowledges that COVID-19 can weaken the immune system and potentially increase the risk of severe cancers in the long run. However, he emphasizes that this is not a universal outcome and many COVID survivors do not develop cancer.
Dr. Eck humbly requests the public’s support, acknowledging the financial strain caused by his previous COVID-19 treatment. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to help cover the substantial costs of his cancer treatment.
In a heartfelt message, Dr. Eck expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of prayers and support he received during his COVID-19 battle, emphasizing his belief in the power of unified prayer. He remains hopeful and determined to overcome this latest challenge with the help of his faith, family, friends, and the Belizean community.
A link to Dr. Eck’s GoFundMe campaign can be found here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/stand-with-dr-eck-donate-for-his-cancer-care
