News & Press Releases

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Cooney to have surgery

June 21, 2000
Bishop Patrick R. Cooney is scheduled to undergo surgery for prostate cancer June 23 diocesan officials announced Wednesday. The surgery will take place at Northern Michigan Hospital in Petoskey by Dr. James Howard. According to Candace Neff, Diocesan Director of Communications, the problem was suspected during a routine examination and further testing confirmed the diagnosis. "Bishop's general health is good and he is optimistic," Neff said. "At this time doctors believe the cancer is confined to a single area and a full recovery is expected." Cooney has known for several weeks, but kept the information to himself because so many celebrations were taking place in the diocese including confirmations, graduations, the priestly ordination of Garth Hilmer and this past weekend's ecumenical covenant signing. "I did not want to change the focus or the atmosphere of these special occasions," Cooney noted. "That's why I made the decision to wait to tell anyone." In sharing the news Bishop Cooney added, "While the prognosis is very good at this time and I'm feeling positive, there are always intangibles involved with surgeries. I would appreciate being remembered in your prayers." Cooney came to northern lower Michigan in 1990 as the third bishop of the Diocese of Gaylord and is shepherd to the more than 80,000 Roman Catholics residing here. Cards and well wishes may be sent to Bishop Cooney through the Diocesan Pastoral Center at P.O. Box 1020, Gaylord, Michigan 49734. At Bishop's request, please do not send flowers. Updates regarding Bishop Cooney's condition will be posted here.