Spencer W. Kimball’s Miraculous Recovery from Throat Cancer

In late 1956, Spencer W. Kimball developed persistent hoarseness and was diagnosed with cancer of the throat and vocal cords. In 1957, while serving as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, he underwent surgery in New York in which surgeons removed one and a half vocal cords, or most of his vocal cords. For a time he could not speak, and doctors gave little hope that he would ever speak again, especially in public ministry. Through priesthood blessings, prayers, faith, and a long recuperation, he recovered. A new voice emerged—quiet, persuasive, mellow, soft, and raspy—and he returned to full apostolic service, eventually becoming President of the Church from 1973 to 1985 and delivering countless addresses. Latter-day Saints viewed his preservation and recovery as providential preparation for the work that lay ahead; Boyd K. Packer described the ordeal as perhaps Kimball’s “Gethsemane.”

Fuller account of this event (the complete account as preserved in Memories: Inspirational Excerpts from The Journal of President Spencer W. Kimball, Times & Seasons):

I told the story of Gwen Johnson and then of my own experience in New York when I was operated on and my vocal cords largely removed, and President McKay was visibly touched by my experiences. I felt that the Lord had inspired me since I spoke of things which I had not had any thought of doing and it seemed to be a proper thing to do.

Following his surgery, Kimball experienced a period where he had no functional voice. During a testimony meeting in the Salt Lake Temple, President David O. McKay invited him to bear his testimony, but Kimball was unable to speak, producing only breathy, inaudible sounds. When Kimball later sent a note to President McKay asking why he had been put in that position, the President responded: 'Spencer, you must get your voice back, for you still have a great mission to perform.' Kimball subsequently learned to control his breath and utilize scar tissue in his larynx along with his remaining vocal cord to regain his voice.