OKC Marines Surprise Cancer Patient

The struggle for a Wewoka man who’s fought a bitter battle with bone cancer is almost at its end. 

Wednesday, June 29, doctors at OU Medical Center sent 20-year-old Josh Richardson home in hospice care.

Richardson’s family said he always wanted to be a United States Marine. However, because he was struck down by cancer five years ago, a career in the military was never an option. But this past Tuesday, a Marines contingent, including the commanding officer in Oklahoma City, visited Josh in his OU Medical Center hospital room. They gave him special coins, and made him what they call an “Honorary War Party Member.” 

Josh’s parents Jeff and Suzanne said it’s something they will never forget.

“Our son is a fighter. His doctors or anybody will tell you he’s been courageous,” said Suzanne. 

“He’s that tough,” said Jeff, who spent 13 years in the Army National Guard. “And let me tell you something, as much as he went through, a lot of people would have already given up. He fought all the way.”

A local Marines Corps. Spokesman told News 9’s Steve Shaw, “This was all about Josh and his family. We were just honored to be able to help out.”