LL COOL J and Wife Simone I. Smith Team Up with Pfizer to Encourage Early Cancer Detection

On what seemed like a normal day in 2004, LL COOL J’s wife Simone I. Smith, then in her 30s, was working out with her trainer when she accidentally walked into a waste basket, hitting a small knot on her leg. This seemingly minor injury led her to the doctor’s office, where they uncovered something much bigger: she had stage III chondrosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer that affects the cartilage.

"I was absolutely devastated. I probably cried for about 10 days on and off because I didn’t believe this was happening to me," Simone recalled.

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Her treatment involved a grueling 15-hour-long surgery to remove her right tibia, which was replaced with her left fibula, a still rod, screws, nails, and micro veins from her other leg. The recovery process was long and arduous, taking two and a half years during which Simone had to learn to walk again. She went from needing to use a wheelchair, to using two crutches to walk, down to one crutch, and finally to a cane. Throughout this journey, her husband was her cornerstone, providing unwavering support and encouragement every step of the way. Simone's faith, family, and inner strength played crucial roles in helping her face cancer.

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Reflecting on her experience, Simone shared, "After going through my own battle with cancer, I felt a strong calling to help others who might be facing similar challenges." LL COOL J added, "Our experience with cancer made us realize how crucial it is to raise awareness and encourage others to take proactive steps in their health journey."

Now, Simone and LL COOL J are teaming up with Pfizer and the PfizerForAll.com platform to encourage people to put their health first and understand their cancer risks through the American Cancer Society CancerRisk360™ assessment.

“When we had the chance to partner with Pfizer, it felt right,” LL COOL J noted. “We want to use our platform to inspire and empower people to take action for their health, just like we did—because fighting cancer takes a community, and awareness is the first step. By joining forces with Pfizer, we hope to provide people with the tools they need to take action.”

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The American Cancer Society CancerRisk360™ assessment is a tool designed to help individuals better understand their health and cancer risk by asking questions about health history, lifestyle, and cancer screening practices. Following completion of the assessment, you will receive steps to improve your overall health and help lower your cancer risk, which can serve as a starting point for a discussion with your doctor.

"The main message we want to convey is that you have the power to take control of your health," the Smiths shared.

LL COOL J added, "It's not just about reacting to cancer, but being proactive. Watching Simone fight through those tough days after surgery made me realize how important it is for all of us—especially in our community—to stay on top of our health. We don’t always go to the doctor like we should, but early detection can save lives.”

In addition to cancer resources, PfizerForAll.com offers tools to help people navigate their overall health and connect to care for a variety of conditions.

For all those impacted by cancer, Simone offered closing words of encouragement: “Stay strong and remember that you're not fighting this battle alone. This journey may be tough, but it's also a testament to your strength, faith and resilience. Lean on your family, surround yourself with love and support and stay informed. Most importantly, don’t wait. Get ahead of it. Visit PfizerForAll.com, to access the assessment, and help protect your health today.

Visit PfizerForAll.com to take charge of your health today. 

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