Dave Coulier says his body is in constant 'fight or flight mode' as he shares update on cancer treatment

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Dave Coulier, beloved for his role as Joey Gladstone in 'Full House', gave his fans an honest update about his cancer treatment in the latest episode of his podcast 'Full House Rewind' released on January 10.

“The side effects have side effects. It’s a constant cocktail where your body is in fight or flight mode, trying to adjust to steroids and chemo. It’s a constant fight,” the 65-year-old actor revealed.

Dave Coulier's life-altering diagnosis

Dave Coulier was diagnosed with Stage 3 non-Hodgkin lymphoma in October 2024 after a respiratory infection led to severe lymph node swelling.

Following PET and CT scans as well as a biopsy, doctors informed him of the aggressive nature of his B-cell lymphoma.

“I went from thinking I had a head cold to hearing I have cancer,” Coulier said in a previous podcast episode.

“It was overwhelming—a fast roller coaster ride of a journey,” he added.

What is non-Hodgkin lymphoma?

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a cancer affecting the lymphatic system, causes abnormal growth of white blood cells called lymphocytes, potentially forming tumors throughout the body.

Coulier and his wife, Melissa Bring, crafted a comprehensive treatment plan with input from medical professionals and friends in the field, according to Us Weekly.

Determined to face his diagnosis with transparency, Coulier chose to document his journey openly through his podcast and public appearances.

“That was a conscious decision,” he explained.

“I want people to know this is my life, and I’m not hiding anything. Talking about it and inspiring others makes it worth the journey,” Coulier added.

Dave Coulier encourages early screenings

Since sharing his diagnosis, Dave Coulier has received an outpouring of support.

“The words of encouragement have really helped,” he said.

“It’s about raising awareness—whether it’s for a colonoscopy, a mammogram, or early screenings. It’s really worth it,” he shared.

Coulier emphasized on the importance of early detection and how sharing his story has helped spark vital conversations about cancer prevention and treatment.

Dave Coulier says his fight against cancer is 'an internal battle'

As Dave Coulier continues his fight against cancer, the actor admitted, “It’s an internal battle. But knowing I can help others makes it worthwhile.”

The actor shared that after he shared his diagnosis he has “heard from so many people who have been affected by cancer in their lives.”

“The words of encouragement have, I think, really helped people," he said.

"So that, to me, is worth the journey of all of this. Just being able to alert people that it’s okay to get a colonoscopy or early screenings or a mammogram, it’s really worth it,” he continued.