‘The Joe Pags Show’ co-host and WOAI radio anchor Cari Laque shares cancer diagnosis details
The other voice of San Antonio's "The Joe Pags Show" just broke some serious personal news.
Cari Laque, who co-hosts the News Radio 1200 WOAI talk show with title talker Joe Pagliarulo, posted Wednesday she's battling stage 4 colorectal cancer. The post comes with a link to a GoFundMe her son Jacob set up to help with medical costs.
"Most of you know a part of the journey I am now on...," Laque wrote on her Facebook page. "Here's my story in my son's words. He wanted so much to help and created this account for me. Even if it's just leaving a kind word, prayer or an account of how you beat this monster... I would love to hear it."
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Laque was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in late July, according to the GoFundMe. CT scans and an MRI revealed the cancer had spread to her lymph nodes. A liver biopsy showed two cancerous tumors as well.
Laque's son noted on the GoFundMe his mother is in for at least six months of chemotherapy, followed by another set of scans to determine if the tumors have shrunk enough for surgery, then more chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
"My Mom works when she can but with upcoming treatments and surgeries that will be hard to do some days," Jacob Laque posted. "We want to make sure she gets the best medical care as possible but with out of pocket costs and high deductibles it's a financial strain that is challenging.
"My Mom always makes sure we are taken care of," he added, "and I want to do the same for her."
It's unclear if Laque has discussed her cancer on "The Joe Pags Show." Pagliarulo, on the other hand, has spoken out loud and at length about his own bout with testicular cancer.
In May 2011, Pagliarulo had his right testicle removed. After the surgery, he told the Express-News via email he had to decide whether to take the day off and deal with the gravity of the situation or "do what I usually do, which is share my thoughts, opinions and life with those who make a conscious choice to listen to me every day.
"The decision ended up being a no-brainer," he said. "I've been joking about it, playing inappropriate songs in and out of breaks ... and really sharing things with my listeners."
Pagliarulo recently shared Laque's Facebook post with a "Please help if you can!"
As of Thursday afternoon, Laque's post had more than 130 comments showing support. Some came with personal experiences with cancer. Many offered prayers. And one of the most liked read: "Hey lady, if you can put up with Joe [P]ags all these years, you have a hell of a lot of strength and tolerance. We are all out here praying for you and your family. We love you so much. Stay strong, stay faithful.. you'll be okay."
The GoFund Me had raised almost $14,000 of its $20,000 goal.
This story was originally published September 19, 2024, 6:49 PM.
