Back in the late 1950s, sitcoms like “Leave It to Beaver” didn’t deal with heavy subjects like serious illness. Sadly, real life has little resemblance to the TV world; even back then, moms didn’t wear fancy dresses and pearls to clean the house and change diapers. This sad fact was brought home recently when Tony Dow’s wife, Lauren Shulkind, announced a health update on his Facebook page. “Dear Friends & Fans of Tony Dow, I have some very sad news to share with you,” she wrote. “Unfortunately, Tony has once again been diagnosed with cancer. He is approaching this reality so bravely, but it is truly heartbreaking. We want to thank you in advance for your caring thoughts. Our Love, Lauren & Tony.”

The post didn’t specify what type of cancer Dow has, or whether it is the same type he’d previously battled. Nearly a year ago, Dow was hospitalized for non-COVID-related pneumonia, via TMZ.

Proving that “Leave It to Beaver” still has a devoted following, Dow got more than 35,000 reactions to the post, along with more than 15,000 comments sending kind thoughts and prayers. Fans also sent well wishes via his Instagram page. One very special note came from Marilyn Mathers, mother of “Beaver” Jerry Mathers. She wrote, “You know how much I love you Tony and I have been praying for you. You were a sweet and precious boy and you’ve grown to be a wonderful man. Your mother would be so proud of you.” 

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