Video: Marine Surprises Mother Diagnosed With Cancer

3/31/2016
Updated:
2/12/2022

Mary Glasure’s life changed forever on Feb. 26, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. The cancer was found to have spread throughout her body, including her left breast, her left lung, and her spine.

The above video captures Mary’s March 16 visit to the Tony Teramana Cancer Center in Steubenville, Ohio, during which she discusses her treatment with her family and a man in blue scrubs that she presumes to be a doctor.
Unbeknownst to her, the man in the scrubs is actually her son Corey Hoffmaster, a U.S. Marine Corporal, who Mary had not seen for two years. According to CBS News, Hoffmaster has been stationed Yuma, Ariz., and had not returned to his hometown for two years.

Still incognito, Hoffmaster tersely says to Mary that he would like to make this quick, as he has another appointment. Mary, a bit stunned, just replies “okay” and throws her hands in the air. When his mother does not recognize his voice, Hoffmaster removes his facial mask, revealing his identity. Mary bursts into tears and wraps Hoffmaster in a bear hug.

Through tears Mary emotionally greets her son, saying, “Hi Corey.” To which the marine replies, “Hi Momma.”

Hoffmaster set up this heartwarming surprise for his mother with his six siblings, including his brother and cameraman Cody Glasure. “We were all in tears; it was pretty amazing,” remarked Cody to CBS News.

“I didn’t even know my own son! When he took his mask off, I just went nuts,” Mary later said. “I was hoping he would come home. I wanted him to be here in person.”

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