Benevento Mayor Mastella Reveals Cancer Diagnosis, Fears Dying Alone

Benevento Mayor Clemente Mastella revealed he is battling cancer, a diagnosis that came after he had suspected an illness for some time. The announcement, made during a church ceremony, was an emotional moment for the mayor, who confessed his breath caught when he first learned of his condition.

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I have a tumor. I understood I had it for quite some time, but it was only recently diagnosed. When I found out, I lost my breath.

Mastella spoke of his reliance on prayer and a changed perspective on time since his diagnosis. He admitted to a fear of dying alone, a sentiment he shared after reading a book on the end of life by Cardinal Scola. "Every day I pray to God that the desire to see his face is stronger than my fear of dying," he quoted.

The mayor is now faced with a difficult decision regarding his treatment. Despite having many doctor friends and seeking various opinions, Mastella must ultimately choose between surgery or medical therapy. He reflected on how rationality, which he once relied on as a philosophy professor, is not always enough when facing life's unpredictable challenges.

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Every day I pray to God that the desire to see his face is stronger than my fear of dying.

His family, including his wife, children, and grandchildren, are a significant source of strength and attachment to life. "They are the ones who ignite an even stronger attachment to life. An almost morbid attachment, I dare to confess," he said. Mastella's public announcement and subsequent reflections highlight a deeply personal struggle with mortality and the complexities of faith and family in the face of serious illness.

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They are the ones who ignite an even stronger attachment to life. An almost morbid attachment, I dare to confess.